SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dad-water-shutoff-clockwise

In an emergency, which way do you turn a water meter valve with a wrench to shut it?

Clockwise.

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  1. Counterclockwise
  2. Either way, it does not matter
  3. Clockwise ✔

Why: The City of Bellevue says to use a crescent wrench or meter valve key and turn the valve clockwise. Clockwise closes most valves, remember 'righty tighty'.

Huh, didn't know that: The valve is commonly in the basement, garage, or outdoors by the foundation, according to Bellevue.

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Know where your shut-off valve is before you need it. Dad's emergency plan is not 'call Dad'.
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References

Answer: Clockwise. The City of Bellevue says to use a crescent wrench or meter valve key and turn the valve clockwise. Clockwise closes most valves, remember 'righty tighty'.

  1. City of Bellevue: Prevent Frozen Pipes bellevuewa.gov/city-government/departments/utilities/manage-your-utility-services/water/prevent-frozen-pipes-and-if-one-breaks
    use a crescent wrench or meter valve key (available at hardware stores) and turn the valve clockwise.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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