Sheltering in Place Topic Overview Back to top In many types of
public health emergencies, the safest thing to do is simply to
stay indoors. If the air is unsafe because of an incident
involving hazardous chemicals, radiation, or an aerosol release
of a biological agent, local authorities may advise you to
"shelter in place," which limits your exposure to the outside
air. To shelter in place: - Make sure all family members and
pets that are at home are inside. Then close and lock all doors
and windows. - Turn off air conditioners, air exchangers, fans,
and furnaces. Close vents and fireplace dampers. - Move to an
inner room, preferably at or above ground level and without
windows. (If the incident involves radiation, authorities may
tell you to take shelter in a basement.) If you have an
emergency supplies kit, take it with you. At the very least,
make sure that you have a battery-powered radio and plenty of
drinking water. - If local authorities advise you to do so, use
duct tape to secure plastic sheeting a