During An Emergency

Staying informed during an emergency

• Listen to radio broadcasts and news updates. 
• Have an emergency crank radio in case the power is out.

If you have to shelter in place

Sheltering in place is the practice of going indoors or remaining indoors because of a dangerous situation outdoors (an airborne chemical release or other safety issue).  If public safety officials ask you to shelter in place, it is recommended that you stay indoors until you receive updates and instructions that it is safe to open windows or doors or leave.

When sheltering in place you should:

• Go or remain indoors.
• Close and lock all windows and exterior doors.
• Where possible, shelter in rooms away from windows and outside doors. Upper floors without windows are preferred because some chemicals are heavier than air and may seep into basements.
• Avoid drawing air in from outside.  Turn off heating and air conditioning, close the fireplace damper.
• Do not use bathroom or kitchen fans/vents.
• Using duct or other wide tape, seal all cracks around doors and vents in the room.
• Monitor news radio, television, websites for information and updates.
• Avoid using the telephone unless it is an emergency.

If you have to evacuate

Authorities will not ask you to leave your home unless they have reason to believe you are in danger.

If you are asked to evacuate, take:

• Your emergency plan and kit.
• A cell phone, charger and/or emergency radio.
• Medications you or your household members take.
• Your pets.

Before you leave your home:

• Shut off water and electricity if officials tell you to.
• If you are not asked to turn off natural gas then leave it on so you don’t have to wait for the utilities company to come and reconnect it afterwards.
• Lock your home.
• Tell a family member or close friend where you are going and when you expect to arrive.