Where is the natural gas shutoff valve for my fireplace and should I label it for emergencies?

The natural gas shutoff valve for your fireplace is located on the gas supply line between your home's main gas meter and the fireplace itself — typically in the basement, crawlspace, or mechanical room where the gas line runs toward your fireplace location. If your fireplace is on the main floor, the shutoff may be in the basement directly below or nearby; if it's on an upper floor, trace the gas line from the fireplace downward to find where it emerges from the wall or floor. Some homes have the shutoff positioned right at the fireplace unit itself, especially for newer direct-vent gas fireplaces or inserts. Check your gas line installation documentation or ask your TSSA-licensed gas fitter if you're unsure.

Yes, you absolutely should label this valve clearly and make sure all household members know its location. This is basic emergency preparedness in Ottawa homes with gas appliances. In the event of a gas smell, hissing sound, or suspicion of a gas leak, being able to quickly locate and shut off the gas can prevent an explosion or dangerous gas accumulation while you call Enbridge Gas (1-800-265-2634) or your local emergency number. Write the shutoff location on a household emergency card posted on your refrigerator, and consider using bright tape or a permanent marker to label the valve itself with "FIREPLACE GAS SHUTOFF."

When you locate the valve, note the direction of the handle. The valve is off when the handle is perpendicular (at a 90-degree angle) to the gas line, and on when it's parallel to the line. If you need to shut it off in an emergency, turn the handle one-quarter turn to the perpendicular position — you do not need to wrench it; hand-tight is sufficient. Do not attempt to relight the fireplace yourself after shutting off the gas — call a TSSA-licensed technician to inspect the system and verify there are no leaks before the gas is turned back on.

Test your knowledge of the shutoff location at least once per year during spring maintenance season. If your current setup is unclear or the valve is difficult to access, a TSSA-licensed gas fitter can install a more conveniently located shutoff or ball valve as part of routine maintenance. This is a modest investment — typically $150 to $300 — and transforms your emergency preparedness from theoretical to genuinely actionable.

Never ignore the smell of natural gas in your home. If you detect a persistent rotten-egg odour (which natural gas companies add to alert you to leaks), evacuate immediately, call Enbridge from outside, and do not use any electrical switches or devices that might create a spark. Trust your nose — gas companies rely on that added odour because it works.

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