Sheltering in Place
During an accidental release of toxic chemicals or other emergencies where air quality is threatened, in-place sheltering will help keep you out of danger. In-place sheltering means to stay indoors – in homes, schools, businesses or public buildings. It includes additional precautions, such as turning off air conditioners and ventilation systems and closing all windows and doors.
Shelter-in-place can be used when there is little time to react to an incident, and it would be more dangerous to be outside trying to evacuate than it would be to stay where you are. It is the responsibility of local authorities to issue orders for in-place sheltering during chemical emergencies; these orders may be received directly from local authorities or through a media outlet.
Sheltering At Home
- Quickly bring everyone inside, including your pets.
- Close and lock all doors to the outside.
- Close and lock all windows.
- Turn off all heating systems.
- Turn off all air conditioners, and switch the inlets to the “closed” positions.
- Close fireplace dampers and stove vents.
- Close as many interior doors as possible.
- Move to interior spaces if possible. Some gases are heavier than air.
- Seal any remaining cracks or openings with available materials, such as towels, blankets, plastic sheeting, etc.
- If necessary, cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth.
- Tune to the Emergency Alert System station on your radio or television for further information and guidance.
- Wait for the all-clear signal from the emergency response authorities before you go outside again.
Sheltering In a Car or Truck
- Never drive into heavy smoke or visible vapors.
- Stay in your car or truck.
- Close all windows, manual vents, air conditioning and ventilation systems.
- If possible, drive away from any visible gas or smoke clouds.
- Follow the orders of law enforcement or public safety personnel directing traffic.
- Tune to the Emergency Alert System station on your radio for further information and guidance.
- Stay in your car or truck and wait for the all-clear signal before you leave your car or open windows or vents.