If
Disaster
Strikes

If Disaster Strikes

Remain calm and patient. Put your plan into action.

Check for injuries

Give first aid and get help for seriously injured people.

Listen to your battery powered radio for news and instructions

Evacuate immediately in the event of fire, or if told to do so by local emergency officials

Wear sturdy or protective clothing
Take your Disaster Supplies Kit
Lock your home.
Use travel routes specified by local authorities - don't use shortcuts because certain areas may be impassable or dangerous.
If time permits, shut off utilities if instructed to do so and make arrangements for pets.

Shelter-in-place if told to do so by local emergency officials

Close all doors to the outside and close and lock all windows (windows sometimes seal better when locked).
Set all building ventilation systems to 100% recirculation. When this is not possible, ventilation systems should be turned off.
Turn off all heating systems.
Turn off all air-conditioners and switch inlets to the "closed" position. Seal any gaps around window type air-conditioners with tape and plastic sheeting, wax paper or aluminum wrap.
Turn off all exhaust fans in kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces.
Close all fireplace dampers.
Close as many internal doors as possible in your home or other building.
Use tape and plastic wrapping, wax paper, or aluminum wrap to cover and seal bathroom exhaust fan grilles, range vents, dryer vents, and other openings to the outside to the extent possible (including any obvious gaps around external windows and doors.).
If the gas or vapor is soluble or even partially soluble in water -- hold a wet cloth or handkerchief over your nose and mouth if the gases start to bother you. For a higher degree of protection, go into the bathroom, close the door, and turn on the shower in a strong spray to "wash" the air. Seal any openings to the outside of the bathroom. Don't worry about running out of air to breathe. That is highly unlikely in normal homes and buildings.
If an explosion is possible outdoors -- close drapes, curtains, and shades over windows. Stay away from external window to prevent potential injury from flying glass.
Minimize the use of elevators in buildings. They tend to "pump" outdoor air in and out of a building as they travel up and down.
Tune into the Emergency Alert System on NOAA Weather Radio, KFAB 1110 AM, KOIL 1180 AM, KEFM 96.1 FM, or KETV Channel 7 for further information or guidance.

Toxic gases and vapors can pass through tiny spaces where dusts and other aerosols in the air may not. Therefore, shelter-in-place may provide a much greater degree of protection when airborne contaminants are in the form of liquid or solid particles.

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SHELTER-IN-PLACE FOR ANHYDROUS AMMONIA RELEASES

Avoid open spaces in the upper levels of building as ammonia gas may collect in these areas. Ammonia gas is lighter than air, but clings to water molecules.

When in doubt, shelter-in-place and listen to your battery-powered radio for further instructions.

Check for damage in your home....

Use flashlights-do not light matches or turn on electrical switches, if you suspect damage.
Check for fires, fire hazards, and other household hazards.
Sniff for gas leaks, starting at the water heater. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows, and get everyone outside quickly.
Shut off any other undamaged utilities.
Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline, and other flammable liquids immediately.

Remember to....

Confine or secure your pets.
Call your family contact - do not use the telephone again unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
Check on elderly or disabled neighbors.
Make sure you have an adequate water supply.
Stay away from downed power lines.
Follow good food safety practice if power has been disconnected for over two hours.

If you have any questions or comments please call us at 402-593-5785 or e-mail us.

Return to the Sarpy County Emergency Management and Communication Home Page

Return to the Sarpy County Emergency Management Home Page

Revised May 13, 1999

This document qualifies as HTML 4.0 transitional!