What To Do during a Hazardous Materials Incident
If you suspect that there has been some type of chemical release in your area:
- Listen to radio or TV emergency broadcasts and follow instructions given
- Bring family and pets inside
- Change clothes; leave old clothes and shoes outside
- Close ALL doors and windows
- Do not eat or drink anything uncovered
How to Shelter-in-Place
- Bring pets and family members inside
- Close and lock all exterior doors and windows. Close vents, fireplace dampers and as many interior doors as possible.
- Turn off air conditioners and ventilation systems. In large buildings, set ventilation systems to 100 percent re-circulation so that no outside air is drawn into the building. If this is not possible, ventilation systems should be turned off.
- Go into the pre-selected shelter room with your emergency supply kit. This room should be above ground and have the fewest openings to the outside.
- Seal gaps under doorways and windows with wet towels or plastic sheeting and duct tape.
- Seal gaps around window and air conditioning units, bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, and stove and dryer vents with duct tape and plastic sheeting, wax paper or aluminum wrap.
- Use material to fill cracks and holes in the room, such as those around pipes.
- If gas or vapors could have entered the building, take shallow breaths through a cloth or a towel. Avoid eating and drinking any food that may be contaminated.