Shelter in Place
When you Need to Shelter in Place.
Sheltering in Place is meant to keep you safe when evacuation is not the best option.
The time you have to react may vary so be sure to take these immediate precautions
when instructed to shelter in place.
When Do You Need to Shelter in Place?
♦ When there is a situation where it is not safe to be out on the road to go
to a community shelter.
There may be an industrial chemical explosion or spill.
This could be caused by a train derailment or a tanker truck accident on a nearby highway.
♦ After an earthquake, roads may be damaged and impassable.
In the event of a winter storm, the roads may be covered in snow.
By staying tuned to your local television news channel or radio, you will get updates on the situation.
♦ Find out what warning system your town has for chemical emergency notification.
In a Chemical Emergency
If a hazardous material has been released into the air, it is not safe to be outside.
♦ Gather everyone inside, including your pets. Have newspapers or pads so your animals may use them.
Do not let them outside to do their business.
♦ If you have farm animals, check with your local Humane Society to find out what steps you can take.
♦ Do not hesitate in taking action.
Biological, Chemical, or Radiological compounds can be deadly.
♦ Close all your doors and windows.
♦ Close your window shades and blinds in case of an explosion.
This will help protect you from flying glass and other debris.
♦ Turn off all fans and heating and air conditioning units.
♦ Close the damper in your fireplace.
♦ Listen to your local television news or radio for updates.
♦ Gather in an interior room with as few windows as possible.
Try to gather in a room with a water source.
Gather on the highest floor possible.
Do Not go to the basement.
Some chemical compounds are heavier than air and can collect in your basement.
(***This is different than preparing for a tornado or a hurricane where you find shelter
on the lowest level possible.***)
♦ In case of emergency, try to be in a room with a land line phone.
♦ Use plastic sheeting or heavy garbage bags and duct tape to seal doors, windows and vents.
♦ Have water and food in your inner room for you, your family and your pets.
Depending on your source of drinking water and filtration, your water may not be safe.
Have a supply of bottled water on hand.
If you must leave your "safe room", make a list of the things to be gathered, then have one person
go and get them.
Make as few trips as possible.
Continue monitoring the news for updates or evacuation orders.
Other Disasters
After an Earthquake, a Hurricane, a Tornado or other event, your home may not be safe.
The roads may have sustained damage and going to a shelter would be unsafe.
Check your local news on the television, if the power is still on, or your battery operated radio
for updates and reports.
♦ If you need to Shelter in Place in these situations, and if your home is structurally safe,
you may stay inside.
If you smell gas, turn off the gas at the main.
Do Not turn it back on.
A company representative should do that after checking for safety.
♦ If sheltering in place inside your home, and the power is out, do not use candles.
They can fall and cause a fire.
There may be an undetected gas leak which could cause and explosion and fire.
♦ If your home has any kind of damage, do not take any chances.
Shelter in place outside in an open area.
You do not want to shelter under power lines or trees or anything else which may fall on you.
♦ Continue to listen for updates on the local news.
If sheltering in place inside or outside, have your Disaster Supplies, Emergency Kits and First Aid Kits handy.