Shelter-In-Place

Learn How to Shelter in Place

“Shelter-in-place” means to take immediate shelter where you are—at home, work, school, or in between. It may also mean “seal the room;” in other words, take steps to prevent outside air from coming in. This is because local authorities may instruct you to “shelter-in-place” if chemical or radiological contaminants are released into the environment. It is important to listen to TV or radio to understand whether the authorities wish you to merely remain indoors or to take additional steps to protect yourself and your family.

 

 

THE BASICS:

Go indoors immediately and stay there.

Close all windows and doors.

Turn off the furnace, air conditioners and exhaust systems.

Listen to your radio or TV for more information.

 

 

SHELTER-IN-PLACE

An accident may cause a hazardous material to enter the air. Unless the hazardous material is flammable, emergency response professionals recommend that you stay indoors until you receive instructions to leave. Once you are inside, there are several things you can do to help your building protect you.

 

THINGS TO DO TO SHELTER-IN-PLACE

  • Go indoors and stay there.
  • Close all outside doors and every door inside the building.
  • Close all windows.
  • Do not use kitchen vents or bathrooms vents.
  • Set thermostats so air conditioners, furnaces and hot water heaters will not come on.
  • Do not use fireplaces. Close all dampers.
  • Do not operate the clothes dryer.
  • Stay in an inside room away from windows and doors if possible.
  • Reduce or avoid smoking as it contaminates the air.
  • Do not leave the building until told to.
  • Stay tuned to local television or radio for information.
  • Do not use the telephone, leave the phone lines open for emergency personnel.

 

Our well weather-stripped buildings slow the movement of air into the buildings and any hazardous material that does enter is weakened when it mixes with the indoor air. It is imperative that you stay indoors, especially if you see a cloud, vapour, or smoke from the hazardous material outdoors or you can smell it indoors. You will be safer inside.