Shelter in Place

By Nancy Hiser, Linnton NET

Steps to save lives in case of industrial accident

Each community needs to evaluate their best safety responses based on their location and local hazards. In Linnton, we are close to industrial toxins and “Shelter in Place” was identified by Portland Fire & Rescue as our most important response to practice. 

In the event of a toxic spill or airborne leak, we should be prepared to “Shelter in Place” until the toxins are dispersed. This means taking refuge in your home, following special procedures. The usual duration is a few hours, not days. Attempting to evacuate during some chemical spills or leaks can create a life-threatening situation. 

For more information including videos, go to: https://portlandnet.tumblr.com/search/shelter+in+place 

What to prepare in advance:

Identify a room that can be sealed off, preferably an interior room with few or no windows but not in a basement.

Precut and label plastic sheeting (at least 2 ml thick) to cover all doors, windows, vents; leave this labeled material in the identified room.

Set aside disaster supplies: duct tape, towels, water, a battery charged radio or television or internet, land line if possible, cell phone and charger, nonperishable food.

What to do at the time:

• Stay calm

• Bring all children and pets inside immediately

• Turn off fans, heat and air conditioning systems, clothes dryers, and close fireplace dampers

• Lock all exterior windows and doors for a tighter seal

• Take disaster supplies to the identified room

• Put wet towels under doorways

• Seal doors, windows, vents, fans with duct tape and plastic sheeting

• Listen to a radio, TV, or the internet for instructions. Do not call 911 for information.

• Use the phone only for emergencies

• Call 911 for symptoms of exposure.

Go to www.publicalerts.org to sign up for emergency notifications. 

Join us at our next NET meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, November 10th. Email nancyhiser@comcast.net for an invitation.