How to Update Your Earthquake Emergency Response Plan

Utahans throughout the state experienced an unexpected wake-up call recently when a 5.7 earthquake hit near Magna, Utah. If that wasn’t enough, the event also caused a few hundred aftershocks in the following days and weeks. This startling event, along with the Coronavirus outbreak, has many Utah residents checking their emergency response plans.

Unfortunately, many Utahans now understand how an unexpected event like an earthquake can wreak havoc on your home. Some residents reported broken water heaters, kitchen upheavals, and other unfortunate incidents. However, not every problem appears where the eye can see.

While you are looking over your family’s emergency response plan, there are a few things that you should add to the list. All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling recently appeared on KUTV, discussing everything you should check after an earthquake.

Here is a quick checklist to help get you started:

•  Check Your Foundation

Once it is safe, examine your home’s foundation. Use light to shine on large cracks you notice in your foundation. If you can see these cracks are over ¼ inch thick, you need to get everyone out of your building to safety. Even if you only have small cracks, you should also call our 24/7 emergency response team. Our team will be there to examine your entire foundation and repair any damage that might have occurred during the earthquake.

• Check for Gas Leaks

You should also check for any gas leaks after an earthquake. Check all your utility valves. Make sure nothing flammable has fallen or spilled near the gas appliance. However, do NOT turn off any valves unless you smell gas or hear hissing. If you must turn it off, immediately contact our licensed technicians. Then, we can perform a pressurized air test to make sure it is safe to restore power to your gas lines.

• Check Your Water Meter

An earthquake can also compromise your home’s plumbing. First, check your water meter levels., then keep an eye on it for a few days afterward. You can check your water meter by shutting off everything in your house and going outside. Any unexplained changes could indicate a plumbing problem. As well as your water meter, pay attention to your water line. Any leaks around your water line or problems with your water meter require professional attention.

• Check Your Sewer and Drainage

Just as you checked your water meter and water line, you should pay attention to your sewer and drainage, as well as, water spots and spills that occur inside your home. These symptoms could indicate major damage to your plumbing. However, less noticeable signs like fluctuating water pressure, dripping noises, and gurgles in the toilet can also indicate problems. Contact our team if anything seems out of sorts.

If you want to watch the entire KUTV segment, hit play on the video below.

All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling is here day and night to help you feel safe in your home, whether it is during an emergency or during a typical day. Our full-service plumber and HVAC contractor services are available in SLC County, Utah County, Davis County, and Park City. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our residential and commercial technicians.