Sheltering in place
In some emergencies, such as a chemical leak, a radiation release or dangerous smoke, going outside is riskier than staying in. Sheltering in place means getting indoors, sealing your space and waiting for the all-clear.
When to shelter in place
Do it when your local authorities or emergency services tell you to, or if you're caught near a release of smoke, fumes or chemicals with no clear way to get away from it. The simple rule many agencies use is: go in, stay in, tune in.
What to do
- Get inside the nearest solid building straight away. Bring children and pets in with you.
- Close all doors and windows. Lock them; it often makes the seal tighter.
- Turn off fans, air conditioning, extractor fans and any heating that draws air in from outside. Close fireplace dampers.
- Go to a room with as few windows and outside walls as possible. Upstairs is better for chemicals, which are often heavier than air. For radiation, choose the middle of the building or a basement.
- Seal gaps around doors, windows and vents with wet towels, tape or plastic sheeting if you have them.
- Bring water, snacks, a torch, a radio, medicines and a phone charger into the room.
- Listen to a battery radio or check official channels for updates.
While you wait
- Stay where you are until the authorities say it's safe to leave or tell you to evacuate.
- Don't go out to collect children from school; schools have their own plans and will keep them safe.
- Keep phone calls short so the network stays free for emergencies.
- If you were outside during a release, take off your outer clothes, put them in a bag, and wash your skin and hair gently with soap and water.
If someone becomes unwell
If anyone has trouble breathing, burning eyes or skin, or feels very ill, call your local emergency number (112 in Europe and many other countries, 911 in North America). Tell them you are sheltering and what you think the substance is.
After the all-clear
- Open windows and doors to air the building.
- Turn ventilation back on.
- Follow any further advice about food, water or cleaning.
This article is in the Grid Survivor app, searchable with no signal. Get the app · £4.99