Transforming your house into a safe shelter

If authorities ask you to shelter in place, it is a precaution during a hazardous materials emergency to keep you safe while remaining indoors. (This is not the same as safety measures during a storm when you should seek shelter below ground level.)

This 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.

• Close and lock all windows and exterior doors. If there is danger of an 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 told to evacuate.