If there was a chemical emergency near your home, would you know what to do? The following information on sheltering in place will help you be better prepared.

What is Sheltering in Place?
Many times during a chemical emergency, it is safer to stay inside and protect yourself than it would be to attempt to evacuate. During an accidental release of toxic chemicals or other emergencies where air quality is threatened, Sheltering in Place keeps you inside a building and out of danger. Sheltering in Place means staying inside the building you are in, whether it's your home, business or other facility. In many cases, Sheltering In Place is the best defense against accidental releases of toxic chemicals.

When is it used?
It is the responsibility of local authorities to issue orders for Sheltering In Place during chemical emergencies. You may receive these orders directly from Police or Fire officials, from a media source such as radio, your local cable television, or through an activation of the Outdoor Warning Sirens. The Outdoor Warning Sirens are activated when a danger threatens the community: tornado, civil defense (nuclear attack or terrorist activity), or a hazardous chemical spill.

How do you Shelter In Place?
Go indoors (don't forget your pets). Close all windows and doors. Turn off heating or air conditioning systems and exhaust fans. Seal gaps around windows and doors with tape and plastic sheeting, wax paper, aluminum foil or a suitable material. Close drapes, curtains or shades over windows to protect against a possible explosion from outside. Place wet towels under the door to keep out vapors.

If vapors manage to penetrate your room, hold a wet washcloth over your nose and mouth. Turn on your radio or TV and wait for the "All Clear" signal. Once it is given open the windows and move outside. Please stay off the phone, since officials may need the open lines to communicate information. Do not call 911 unless you have an emergency.

After the Emergency?
When the "All Clear" signal is given by one of the methods described above, ventilate the structure by opening doors and windows. Go outside for a little while to allow the building to air out.

Be Prepared! Make a Kit!
Sheltering In Place is simply preparing your home to keep the chemical from getting inside. This can be done easily and quickly if you have the proper materials on hand. A standard Shelter in Place kit consists of:

• Bottled water
• Bath towels
• Duct tape
• Plastic sheeting
• Flashlight
• Battery powered radio
• Extra batteries
• Non-perishable food items
• First aid kit with scissors
• Map of area for possible evacuation routes
• Indoor activities for small children

Follow these easy steps:

• Go inside immediately (pets also)
• Close all windows and doors
• Turn off heating or air conditioning systems
• Turn off exhaust fans
• Seal gaps around windows and doors
• Close drapes, curtains and shades
• Turn on radio and listen for information
• Stay off the phone unless necessary
  - Don't call the schools
  - Don't call 911 for information
• Be prepared to evacuate if instructed to do so

If you are in a car:

• Turn off the car ignition
• Shut windows and shut vents

After the All Clear:

• Ventilate the structure and go outside
• Replace used items in your kit