During an emergency involving a hazardous materials release, there is potential for temporary outdoor air quality issues, and in some cases it best to shelter-in-place. Shelter-in-place means selecting a small interior room, above ground level, with few or no windows and taking refuge there until the outdoor air quality is safe. To be prepared for this type of emergency, it’s important to plan ahead and know what actions to take during the emergency.

Plan Ahead• Know what room you will go to and how to seal it• Know where the manual vents are and how to close them
• Know where the forced air heating or cooling controls/power exhaust vents are and how to turn them off• Have a shelter in place kit ready
• Have a battery powered radio in the room you will be using

How to Shelter-in-place• Go indoors
• Bring in pets if safe to do so• Close windows and doors
• Turn off ceiling fans and ventilation systems• Go to the room that has been pre-designated (above ground level unless instructed otherwise)
• Seal windows and doors• Turn on radio for more information

“Regardless of whether you’re at home, work, or even on vacation; knowing what actions to take if advised to shelter-in-place will help ensure life safety,” said Gary Stockert, Bismarck Emergency Manager.

For more information on sheltering-in-place and what you should have in your shelter-in-place kit, visit Shelter-In-Place link below.