Home and city
Chemical release: shelter in place
You're ordered to shelter because of a chemical cloud, a strong odor, or a chemical accident.
Do this nowTap each step when done
- 1Bring everyone and your pets inside. Close and lock doors and windows.
- 2Turn off the AC, heating, and exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen.
- 3Choose the largest room you can seal, with few windows. A bathroom is best.
- 4Seal the room. Tape on the door; plastic over windows and vents. No plastic, use towels.
- 5Listen to the radio and wait. Go out only when authorities say so.
- 6If they order an evacuation, leave now. Heavy gas settles in the lower floors.
- 7If the chemical touched you: take off your clothes without pulling them over your head and shower.
Don't
- Don't go near to look or read placards.
- Don't trust an N95: it doesn't filter gases.
- Don't stay if they order an evacuation.
- Don't walk or drive through smoke or puddles.
Have ready
- 2–4 mil plastic, already cut and labeled.
- Heavy tape (duct tape), scissors, and old towels.
- Room of 10 ft² (0.9 m²) per person or more.
Key factOutside: wind in your face, toward high ground. Poisonings: 1-800-222-1222.
More detail
Reviewed: Nov 2026 · Sources: Chapter 16 · Chemical, biological, and pandemic…
