In the Event of a Quake, This Will Step on the Gas

Everyone in Southern California knows the drill: After a hefty earthquake, one of the first things you do is turn off the gas if there is any hint of a leak.

But what if you aren’t home? Pacific Enterprises Energy Services, in affiliation with the Southern California Gas Co., has a solution. The Gas Co. is unveiling a safety valve that automatically shuts off gas in a seismic shock of 5.4 magnitude or greater.

It’s a simple 2.5-inch aluminum cube holding a stainless steel ball that sits on a small pedestal. Installed at the meter inlet, the device lets gas flow through the valve unless the house is shaken by a 5.4 or more earthquake. In that case the ball is tipped from the pedestal, falling into the gas stream and instantly shutting off the flow. Later, a screwdriver or coin can be used to reset the ball. The valve, which will be installed by the Gas Co., will be sold for $199 (plus tax and permit).

“We are primarily selling this product to give people peace of mind,” said Scott Beals of Pacific Enterprises. In the past the company has discouraged people from needlessly turning off the gas, and company officials point out there were very few gas-related fires after the 1994 Northridge quake.

Information: (800) 365-3636.