
Shelter-In-Place ~ Home
What Shelter-in-Place Means:
One of the instructions you may be given in an emergency where hazardous
materials may have been released into the atmosphere is to shelter-in-place.
This is a precaution aimed to keep you safe while remaining indoors. (This is
not the same thing as going to a shelter in case of a storm.) Shelter-in-place
means selecting a small, interior room, with no or few windows, and taking
refuge there. It does not mean sealing off your entire home or office building.
If you are told to shelter-in-place, follow the instructions provided in this
Fact Sheet.
Why You Might Need to Shelter-in-Place:
Chemical, biological, or radiological contaminants may be released accidentally
or intentionally into the environment. Should this occur, information will be
provided by local authorities on television and radio stations on how to protect
you and your family. Because information will most likely be provided on
television and radio, it is important to keep a TV or radio on, even during the
workday. The important thing is for you to follow instructions of local
authorities and know what to do if they advise you to shelter-in-place.
How to Shelter-in-Place ~ At Home:
Close
and lock all windows and exterior doors.
If
you are told there is danger of explosion, close the window shades, blinds, or
curtains.
Turn
off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems.
Close
the fireplace damper.
Get
your family disaster supplies kit and make sure the radio is working.
Go to
an interior room without windows that's above ground level. In the case of a
chemical threat, an above-ground location is preferable because some chemicals
are heavier than air, and may seep into basements even if the windows are
closed.
Bring
your pets with you, and be sure to bring additional food and water supplies for
them.
It is
ideal to have a hard-wired telephone in the room you select. Call your emergency
contact and have the phone available if you need to report a life-threatening
condition. Cellular telephone equipment may be overwhelmed or damaged during an
emergency.
Use
duct tape and plastic sheeting (heavier than food wrap) to seal all cracks
around the door and any vents into the room.
Keep
listening to your radio or television until you are told all is safe or you are
told to evacuate. Local officials may call for evacuation in specific areas at
greatest risk in your community.
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