Sheltering In Place During a Local Emergency
Overview
This informational brochure from the Blair County Local Emergency Planning Committee explains the concept of "Sheltering in Place" as a method for protecting oneself and family during local emergencies, particularly those involving hazardous materials. It outlines when to use this method, how to prepare beforehand, and specific actions to take during and after an event.
When to Shelter in Place
Blair County emergency officials advise sheltering in place under the following conditions:
- A chemical leak has occurred and is expected to last for a short time.
- The chemical has a low health hazard and does not warrant an evacuation.
- Chemical fumes could quickly overtake you if you are outside.
This method is also applicable for natural emergencies such as floods and winter storms.
Preparation: Before the Emergency
Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential emergencies by taking the following steps:
- Stay Informed: Learn how warnings are issued for your specific location (home, work, school).
- Emergency Alert System (EAS): Understand that alerts are broadcast via local TV/radio stations, cable systems, and NOAA Weather Radio.
- NOAA Weather Radio (NWR): Purchase a receiver with the "SAME" decoding feature and battery backup. Program it for Blair County to receive specific all-hazard messages.
- Communication: Ensure the shelter room has a wired telephone (cell phones should be reserved for emergency calls only).
- Supplies: Prepare a shelter-in-place kit containing:
- Battery-operated AM/FM radio with fresh batteries.
- Flashlight with fresh batteries.
- Bottled water and energy bars/food.
- Towels, wet wipes, and toys for young children.
- First-aid kit and necessary medicine.
- Home Preparation:
- Select a room with few or no windows and a wired telephone.
- Learn CPR and first-aid.
- Identify potential sources of hazardous materials in your surroundings.
- Review and practice your emergency plan periodically.
Actions During the Emergency
If instructed to shelter in place:
- Immediate Action: Take children and pets indoors immediately.
- Seal the Room:
- Shut and lock doors and windows (locking creates a better seal).
- Turn off heating, cooling, and fans that draw air from outside.
- Close fireplace dampers if applicable.
- Stay Informed: Turn on a radio or TV to a local station broadcasting emergency information. Stay tuned until the "all clear" message is broadcast.
- Communication: Stay off the phone to keep lines open for emergency calls.
- Safety: Do not leave your house to retrieve children from school; schools have their own emergency plans.
Actions After the Emergency
Once the "all clear" message is received via the emergency broadcast system:
- Open doors and windows.
- Turn on heating/cooling systems to ventilate the house.
- Go outside if instructed by public safety officials.