Preparing for an Emergency

Shelter-In-Place procedure

Originally designed by the chemical industry, the Shelter-In-Place procedure was created to protect students and staff in the event of the release of a dangerous chemical into the environment through an industrial accident, such as a break in a petroleum or natural gas pipeline, a hazardous materials spill or an explosion on the major highways in our area. It is also the recommended procedure to respond to a deliberate air-borne chemical or biological attack.

Here’s how Shelter-in-Place works. If a dangerous substance is released in the community and poses a threat to students during the school day, schools would be directed by public health or safety officials to bring all students and staff members into predetermined areas. All heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems would be shut down, and all doors and windows would be closed and secured. This approach has proven to be safer than evacuating students into a contaminated outdoor environment.

To maintain that secure environment, it’s highly recommended that no one enter or leave the building until the authorities give the all-clear. Parents are encouraged likewise to remain in a safe place until the all-clear is given, and then to come directly to the school.

The American Red Cross has more information on Shelter-In-Place procedures at http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/beprepared/shelterinplace.html