Preparedness
Master the Essential Skill of Sheltering in Place Today
In today’s unpredictable world, the ability to “shelter in place” is an essential skill for survival. This practice involves locating a secure indoor space and remaining there until authorities give an “all clear” or advise evacuation. Various scenarios, such as an active shooter, severe weather, or hazardous materials, could necessitate this protective measure.
When local officials instruct you to “stay put,” it is crucial to act swiftly. Tune into local radio or television broadcasts for specific instructions tailored to the emergency at hand. Generally, the first step is to get inside, bringing along loved ones, emergency supplies, and pets if possible.
Once inside, identify a safe location based on the nature of the threat. For instance, during a chemical event, a room high in the structure with minimal windows and doors is ideal. Conversely, for tornadoes or radiological threats, a lower part of the building is safer.
Once settled, it’s important to communicate with your emergency contact.
“Call or text your emergency contact. Let them know where you are, if any family members are missing, and how you are doing.”
To ensure emergency lines remain open, use your phone sparingly, only for life-threatening situations.
Stay informed by continuously listening to updates via radio, television, or phone. Remain in your shelter until officials declare it safe to leave. If evacuation is necessary, adhere strictly to their instructions.
In certain emergencies, you may need to prevent outside air from entering your shelter. Officials may instruct you to “seal the room.” This involves turning off air-moving devices like fans and air conditioners, bringing clean emergency supplies into the room, and blocking air entry points.
Once the danger has passed, restore air circulation by turning on fans and opening windows. Everyone should vacate the building temporarily to allow fresh air exchange.
For those preparing to shelter in place during a chemical attack or leak, selecting the right room is crucial. The ideal space is a large room with a water supply, like a master bedroom with an attached bathroom, located high in the building to avoid sinking vapors. Vehicles should be avoided as shelters due to their lack of airtightness.
If you find yourself needing to shelter in place while on the road, and you can’t reach a building quickly, follow these steps:
“Pull over to the side of the road. Stop your vehicle in the safest place possible and turn off the engine.”
If weather conditions are warm, find a shaded spot to prevent overheating. Remain in your vehicle until officials signal it’s safe to proceed. Listening to the radio for updates is essential, and fortunately, modern car radios consume minimal battery power, allowing you to stay informed without depleting your battery.
Even after resuming travel, continue to monitor the radio and follow law enforcement directions. For those looking to deepen their preparedness knowledge, FEMA offers a comprehensive PDF booklet that serves as an excellent starting point. This resource can significantly enhance your readiness for sheltering in place.
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