Hi! My name is
Shelly. We turtles are natural-born experts in the fine art of taking
shelter in our homes. So....the Franklin County emergency management folks
asked me to share a bit of my wisdom with you in case you ever need to take
shelter in your home.
What is in-place sheltering? In a chemical or other emergency where air safety is affected, in-place sheltering keeps you inside a building you are already in or has you seek shelter in the nearest building so that you will be out of danger.
When do you use in-place sheltering? At the time of an emergency which involves chemical releases, the local authorities (usually the fire department) will be in control of the situation. It will be their responsibility to order either in-place sheltering or an evacuation, if either is deemed necessary. You may receive this information directly from your local police or fire department. It could also come through a media source, such as radio or television. When you are first aware of an emergency you should listen to the local radio and television for further information. Full instructions will be relayed, including when it is safe to go back outside.
How do you Shelter In Place?
1. Close all doors to the outside and close and lock all windows (windows sometimes seal better when locked).
2. Turn off your ventilation systems so that no outside air is drawn into the structure.
3. Turn off heating systems.
4. Turn off air conditioners and switch inlets to the "closed" position. Seal any gaps around window-type air conditioners with tape and plastic sheeting, wax paper, aluminum wrap, or any suitable material.
5. Turn off exhaust fans in kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces.
6. Close all fireplace dampers and seal all openings with tape and plastic sheeting, wax paper, aluminum wrap, or any suitable material.
7. Close as many internal doors as possible in your home.
8. Use tape and plastic food wrapping, wax paper, or aluminum wrap to cover and seal bathroom exhaust fan grilles, range vents, dryer vents, and other openings to the outdoors to the extent possible (including any obvious gaps around external windows and doors).
9. If the gas or vapor is soluble or even partially soluble in water, hold a wet cloth or handkerchief over your nose and mouth if the gases start to bother you. For a higher degree of protection, go into the bathroom, close the door, and turn on the shower in a strong spray to "wash" the air. Seal any opening to the outside of the bathroom as best you can. Don't worry about running out of air to breathe. That is highly unlikely in normal homes and buildings.
10. If an explosion is possible outdoors, close
the drapes, curtains, and shades over windows. Stay away from external windows
to prevent potential injury from flying glass.
11. Minimize the use of elevators in buildings. These tend to "pump"
outdoor air in and out of a building as they travel up and down.
12. Tune to your local radio or television for further information and guidance.