So, the worst has happened. A pipe in your home has busted and is gushing out water all over your home. Unfortunately, you have no way of turning off the water since there isn’t a shut-off valve near by. What do you do? You need to run to your main water supply shutoff and turn it off there. Your next question might be: “Where is it?”

Well, it’s a good thing you asked, especially since this situation hasn’t happened yet. As a homeowner, being aware of where the main water supply shutoff is located can save you a lot of headaches later.

The best way to find it is to figure out where water enters your house.

In most cases, this will be towards the street, usually in your basement if you have one. If not, look in your garage or near your water heater.

It is also possible that there is a hatch in your lawn that gives access to the main water shutoff valve. If so, you most likely will need a tool to operate it called a meter key