Learn How to Take Action
for Your Family
So far you've received information to help you prepare for
hazardous chemical emergency. Now let's turn our attention
to what to do in the remote chance such an emergency happens
in your neighborhood.
First, take action:
- Immediately go inside.
- Shut off heaters and air conditioners.
- Close all fireplace dampers. You do not want the outside
air to be pulled into your house.
Shelter in Place: Go to the area you've chosen as
your Shelter in Place.
- Close all doors, windows, vents and any other openings
to the outside.
- Insure that all the openings are sealed air tight with
duct tape or wet towels.
- If you think chemicals are still leaking into your home,
cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth or towel.
- Tune into your local news radio or local TV station to
learn more about the emergency. Do not leave unless you
are asked to do so.
Stay off the phone: During any emergency it is important
to stay off the phone. Do not tie up regular or cellular
phone lines needed by the fire, police or sheriff department
Only call 911 if there is an injury or other immediate emergency.
Do not call 911 for information on the status of the emergency.
Listen to Radio or TV: The best thing you can do
is stay put and listen to the radio and TV as the spill or
release is monitored by local officials.
If an evacuation is necessary, in most cases your local
fire department or law enforcement agency will contact you
with complete instructions on what to do. When the emergency
is over, the fire department will issue an "all clear". At
that time you can open windows and doors to let in fresh air
and move your family outside.
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