American Red Cross, Lebanon Chapter

Shelter In-Place

What Does Shelter In-Place Mean?

One of the instructions you may be given in an emergency where hazardous materials may have been released into the atmosphere is to shelter-in-place. This is a precaution aimed to keep you safe while remaining indoors. (This is not the same thing as going to a shelter in case of a storm.) Shelter-in-place 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. If you are told to shelter-in-place, follow the instructions provided in this Fact Sheet.

Why Might You Need to Shelter In-Place?

Chemical, biological, or radiological contaminants may have been released accidentally or intentionally into the environment. Should this occur, information will be provided by local authorities on television and radio stations on how to protect you and your family. Because information will most likely be provided on television and radio, it is important to keep a TV or radio on, even during the workday. The important thing is for you to follow instructions of the local authorities and knowing what to do if they advise you to shelter-in-place.

How to Shelter-in-Place:

Close and lock all windows and exterior doors.
If you are told there is danger of explosion, close the window shades, blinds, or curtains.
Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems.
Close the fireplace damper.
Get your family Shelter In-Place 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 family’s emergency contact (to inform them you are Sheltering In-Place) and have the phone available if you need to report a life-threatening condition. Cellular telephones 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 you are told to evacuate. Local officials may call for an evacuation in specific areas at greatest risk in your community.
When you hear the "all clear" message over the emergency broadcast system, you should open the doors and windows of your house, turn on your heating/cooling system to ventilate the house, and go outside.

Build a Shelter In-Place Kit:

There are six basics you should stock for your family: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items. Keep the items that you need during a shelter in-place emergency in an easy-to carry container. It is recommended that you store your Shelter In-Place kit in the room you plan to use should you be required to shelter in-place.

Water

Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles.
Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person (two quarts for drinking and two quarts for each person in your household for food preparation/sanitation).

Food

Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. Include a selection of the following foods:

o        High energy foods
o        Vitamins
o        Food for infants

First Aid Kit

Assemble or purchase a small first aid kit to manage small injuries.

Adhesive bandages, various sizes.
Sterile gauze pads.
Germicidal hand wipes or waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Antiseptic wipes.
Adhesive tape, 2" width.
Anti-bacterial ointment.

Prescription and non-Prescription medication.

Tools and Supplies

Battery-operated radio and extra batteries.
Flashlight and extra batteries.
Non-electric can opener or utility knife.
Fire extinguisher: small canister ABC type.
Duct Tape – at least 2 rolls.
Plastic sheeting (Heavier than food wrap.)

Sanitation

Toilet paper and Towelettes.
Waterless hand soap.
Feminine supplies.
Personal hygiene items.
Plastic garbage bags, ties (for personal sanitation uses.)
Disinfectant.

Clothing and Bedding

Consider including at least one complete change of clothing, footwear, and blankets/sleeping bag per person.

Special Items

Remember family members with special requirements such as infants, elderly, or disabled persons

For Baby

o        Formula
o        Diapers
o        Bottles
o        Powdered milk
o        Medications

For Adults

o        Denture needs
o        Contact lenses and supplies
o        Extra eye glasses

Entertainment

o        Games
o        Books
o        Toys

Local Emergency Management officials on the scene are the best source of information for your particular situation. Following their instructions during and after emergencies regarding sheltering, food, water, and clean up methods is your safest choice.

Remember that instructions to shelter-in-place are usually provided for durations of a few hours, not days or weeks. There is little danger that the room in which you are taking shelter in will run out of oxygen causing you to suffocate.

For additional information concerning Shelter In-Place, or any other type of Disaster Response or Preparedness activities, Contact the office for more information.

Fact Sheet - Shelter-In-Place: English
Fact Sheet - Shelter-In-Place: Spanish

Home | Get A Kit | Make A Plan | Be Informed | Site Directory

News | Links | Help Can't Wait