There’s a chemical leak in your area and you have to shelter in place. Here’s what to do

HOUSTON, Texas – If you ever find yourself having to shelter in place due to a chemical leak or release like residents in Deer Park this week, here’s a breakdown of exactly what you need to do.

• At least 2 dead, 35 others treated after chemical release at industrial plant in Deer Park

If you’re not told to evacuate or it’s too late to evacuate, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said residents should stay inside and minimize airflow by turning off all furnaces, air conditions, fans and heaters. Also,

• Tape the gaps around doors and windows
• Cover and vents or recessed fans
• Tape over electrical outlets
• Use duct tape and plastic sheeting to seal around doors and windows to help reduce contaminated air from coming inside the room
• Turn off all fans, heaters and air conditoners

Additional safety measures:

• Go inside as quickly as possible, and take your pets, too
• Lock all doors and windows for a better seal
• Turn off the air conditions or furnace, all fans, close the fireplace damper and any other place that air can come inside
• Use duct tape and plastic to seal around doors and windows in the room where you take shelter
• Listen for current information and instructions from authorities
• Do not drink water from the tap

Make a plan for a shelter-in-place or emergency:

• Plan how you would leave and where you would go to get away from the chemical release. Think of several different routes in case one is blocked.
• Follow the instructions of your police, fire, or other local officials. They will identify local shelters and give directions.
• Find a place that will take pets but also have a plan to leave a pet with someone else if needed.
• Make an emergency plan to stay in contact if you and your children or loved ones are separated. You may need to send messages through texts or social media.
• Practice so everyone knows what to do.
• Make Go Kits for your family, including any pets. You may want 2 bags – one for home and one for your car, truck, or other vehicle.

What’s next?

• When it is safe to leave your home, you will get the “all clear” from police, fire or other local officials.
• Follow instructions from your police, fire, or other local officials for what to do when you go outside to make sure you stay safe.