Step One: Individual shutoff valves are found on some sinks and most toilets. They are generally located at the supply tubes feeding the fixture. Turn the valve clockwise to stop water flow, then open a faucet or flush the toilet to release water standing in the lines.	Step Two: Main shutoff valve, located near water meter, can be closed to shut off all water. Open faucets at the highest and lowest points in your home to drain water lines.

Tips and Techniques

When turning off the water at sink, tub and toilet shut offs, or at the main shut off, be careful not to turn the handles too hard. You can break the valve stem inside the shut off valve, forcing you to replace the shut off before you can do your other repair.

Before turning off the water, plan ahead. If the water will be off for a few hours, you might want to fill a sink, tub or a few buckets so you will have water available. And if you are going to be removing a fixture such as the toilet, you might want to arrange use of a bathroom with a neighbor.

Never begin a plumbing repair at a time when hardware stores will be closedif you break a piece, run out of materials or discover your repair is bigger than you first thought, you'll be out of luck.