Anyone can turn the gas OFF.<br><br>The "special" wrench is nothing more than a metal bar with a slot in it. The slot fits over similar looking stud on the valve. The bar has now become a handle and you turn the valve. You can do the same with a good sized crescent wrench, or a pair of pliers.<br><br>My understanding is that only the gas company can turn the gas back on. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong on this.<br><br>In many areas, you can get a replacement valve that will automatically turn off with a shock (earthquake etc.) of greater than a certain magnitude. Of course these must be professionally installed.