Evacuate or Shelter-in-Place

 

Plan to Evacuate or Shelter-in-Place

During a chemical spill/release or hazmat incident, you may be told to evacuate your home or shelter-in-place.  Notification to evacuate or shelter-in-place may come via NOAA All Hazard Weather Radio, local radio, TV, vehicle loudspeaker and/or door-to-door by law enforcement or a fire department.  If you are told to evacuate, remain calm and follow all instructions.

Kenosha County Emergency Management, the Kenosha County Department of Human Services, the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and other organizations and volunteers may establish and operate community-based shelters for local residents in public schools, recreation centers, or other appropriate facilities.  Persons needing shelter are asked to bring blankets, pillows, a change of clothing, bathing and sanitary supplies, pre-filled prescriptions and other medical needs such as dentures, eye care materials and special dietary supplies or requirements. 

If you are told to shelter-in-place, stay indoors and make your environment as isolated as possible from the outdoors.  To isolate you and your family from a dangerous outdoor event like a chemical spill, follow these guidelines:

      • Get family and pets inside;
      • Close doors, windows and fireplace damper;
      • Turn off air conditioning, fans, heating units, and other vents;
      • Go either to an upper or lower interior room with the fewest windows and doors, as directed;
      • Wet towels and jam them in the crack under the doors;
      • Close blinds, shades, drapes, and stay away from windows;
      • If fumes seep into the room, breathe through wet cloths held to the nose and mouth;
      • Remain in the room and listen to your NOAA All Hazard Weather Radio, your local radio station or television until you are told all is safe and you are able to evacuate.

       

     

Remember Your Pets!

Emergency planning should include all members of the family, including your pets.  Only service animals are allowed in emergency shelters.  Make sure you have a pre-planned location to take your pet (family, friends, veterinarian, boarding establishment, etc.).  You should have:

  • An airline-approved carrier for each dog, cat or other pet, ID, vaccination records, registrations, special needs list, sufficient medicines and a muzzle or leash.
  • Your pet’s favorite food and clean water (depending on where you are taking your pet).
  • Bowls, can opener, kitchen trash bags, bleach, and waste disposal supplies.
  • Your pet’s favorite blanket and toys.

 

For more information on emergency preparedness for pets, visit the Wisconsin Humane Society website.

   Remember your pets!