If you live in Portland, you’ve likely heard about the risk of a major earthquake—but many homeowners don’t realize one of the biggest dangers isn’t the shaking itself. It’s what happens after. Gas leaks caused by seismic activity are one of the leading causes of fires following an earthquake. An earthquake shutoff valve is designed to automatically stop the flow of gas to your home when strong shaking is detected—helping protect your property and your safety. So the question is: Do you actually need one?