Most people know that there is a chance that they may be asked to evacuate if there is an emergency such as a chemical
spill in their area. When evacuating, most people would go to a shelter that would be set up by emergency workers, or some
would prefer to go to a friend or relatives house until it is safe to return. What if the emergency instructions were not to
evacuate, but to "shelter in place". Do you know what this means? Would you know what to do to protect yourself and your
family? If the answer is "no", you are not alone. Most people are very confused as to what "shelter in place" really means.

Sheltering in place simply means that you stay in your residents, or current location such as work, and take some general
precautions such as:
•        Close and lock all windows and exterior doors.
•        If you are told there is danger of explosion, close the window shades, blinds, or curtains.
•        Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems.
•        Close the fireplace damper.
•        Get your family disaster supplies kit and make sure the radio is working.
•        Go to an interior room without windows that's above ground level.
•        In the case of a chemical threat, an above-ground location is preferable because some chemicals are heavier
than air, and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed.
•        Bring your pets with you, and be sure to bring additional food and water supplies for them.
•        It is ideal to have a hard-wired telephone in the room you select. Call your emergency contact and have the phone
available if you need to report a life-threatening condition. Cellular telephone equipment may be overwhelmed or
damaged during an emergency.
•        Use duct tape and plastic sheeting (heavier than food wrap) to seal all cracks around the door and any vents into
the room.
•        Keep listening to your radio, television, telephone until you are told all is safe or you are told to evacuate. Local
officials may call for evacuation in specific areas at greatest risk in your community.

So remember, evacuating is not the only choice in a disaster or hazardous situation. Sometimes the safest thing for you and
your family is to shelter in place, and now you know how to do this.
Emergency Shelter in Place
Fire Departments don't succeed, people do.
Administrative Office - Station 32
8905 N. Koch Field Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, 928-526-9537 Office, 928-526-2750 Fax, sfd@summitfiredepartment.org
Summit Fire District
Fire Departments don't succeed, people do.