What does "shelter-in-place" mean?
If a hazardous chemical emergency occurs in your neighborhood, the most important thing to remember is to take action quickly. During a hazardous chemical emergency, you should go inside and stay put. This procedure is called Shelter in Place. You can use your entire house or only a few rooms. Make sure you choose an area that has a telephone, water, a toilet, and someplace you can seal off easily. A bedroom is an excellent choice.


•Go inside
•Turn off heaters and air conditioners and close fireplace dampers
•Close and seal all doors and windows
•Cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth if necessary
•Listen to your radio or TV
•Wait for the all clear signal before you move outside
Be Aware and Prepare
Create an emergency plan just like you do in the event of a fire, tornado or any other kind of emergency. Include in the plan the steps you will take to protect yourself and your family.

Make a checklist of what needs to be done. Next, assign tasks. Each person in the family should have a job for which they are capable and responsible.

Add to the emergency kit you may already have for power outages. Inside, keep an updated emergency phone list that includes the phone numbers for a doctor, the closest emergency room, fire and police. Also note the local TV channels and radio stations with frequent news broadcasts.

Make sure your emergency kit includes the following:
•two rolls of duct tape
•scissors
•towels
•drinking water
•toilet supplies and any necessary medications
•a portable, battery operated radio
•a flashlight
•extra batteries and once again,
•your checklist
Store your emergency kit in a place you can get to quickly and easily. Then rehearse by having emergency drills.

Show All Answers

1. What is BEACON?
2. How do I know when severe weather is coming?
3. How do I improve my NOAA Weather Radio reception?
4. What does "shelter-in-place" mean?
5. Where do I find out what classes are available to me?
6. Does Burnett County have a plan for emergencies?