Shelter In Place Information
The concept of sheltering in place is to provide protection from an outside atmosphere that is immediately hazardous to health or safety. Such conditions may occur immediately following a hazardous materials accident, transportation accident or terrorist attack. Sheltering in place is intended to be a short term action and provides protection until the hazard dissipates.
The safest course of action in a hazardous materials release is to evacuate up wind and away from the hazard. Sheltering in Place is used only when there is no safe evacuation route.
Sheltering in Place is not the same as Sheltering from a Weather Event such as a Tornado. Sheltering can also be required for active violence incidents.
Procedures for sheltering in place:
- Shelter in Place when an obviously hazardous atmosphere exist or when advised by emergency services.
- Close doors and windows in your selected shelter area.
- Turn off fans and/or air conditioners.
- If possible, have the building HVAC turned off.
- Use plastic sheeting, duct tape, towels, clothes to seal windows, doors, air vents.
- Notify emergency services of your shelter location and the number of persons sheltered.
- Monitor commercial radio/TV for an all-clear notice.
- Remain in shelter notified that conditions are safe.