IN-HOME SHELTER

What's an "In-Home Shelter"?

In the event of a radiological, chemical, or biological emergency, authorities may direct you to SHELTER IN PLACE or EVACUATE. What this means is to remain inside your home or place of work and protect yourself there.

What do I do if emergency officials advise me to "Shelter in Place"?

• Stay calm.
• Bring children and pets indoors immediately.
• Close and lock all windows and outside doors.
• Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems, close exterior doors and windows.
• If you have a fireplace, close the damper.
• Gather your disaster supplies, emergency kit (pdf) and battery powered radio.
• Go to an interior room, ideally without windows. In case of a chemical threat, a room above ground is preferable because some chemicals are heavier than air and may seep into the basement.
• Use duct tape (wet towels if you are out of duct tape) to seal doors, exhaust fans, vents, and windows.
• Listen to the radio or TV for emergency instructions and Shelter in Place until you are told all is safe.

(Information provided by FEMA)