In-place sheltering simply means staying inside your home or business. During an accidental release of toxic chemicals or emergencies involving hazardous materials where air quality may be threatened, in-place sheltering keeps you inside a protected area and out of danger.
- If possible, bring outdoor pets inside.
- Close and lock all doors and windows to the outside.
- Turn off all heating and air conditioning systems, and switch inlets or vents to the closed position.
- Close all fireplace dampers.
- Seal gaps around window-type air conditioners, fireplace dampers, doors and windows with plastic sheeting, wax paper or any other suitable material and tape the material down.
- Close drapes or shades over windows.
- Stay away from windows.
- Remain in place until you are told by police or fire officials, or through radio or television broadcasts, that it is safe to leave.
If time does not permit you to seal the entire home, close as many internal doors as possible, move to the most central room in your home, and seal that room as above.
