The first hour
- Go inside right away. Bring kids and pets in.
- Close and lock all windows and doors. Turn off heating, AC and fans that pull in outside air. Close the fireplace damper.
- Go to an inside room with few windows, ideally above ground (many chemicals are heavier than air).
- If told to, seal the room with plastic sheeting and duct tape over windows, doors and vents.
- Turn on a radio or TV for updates.
The first day
- Stay inside until officials say it's safe. This is usually a few hours, not days.
- When cleared, open windows and turn on fans to air out the home.
- If you were outside, follow official decontamination guidance.
The first week and beyond
- Follow any guidance about food from gardens, water or pets.
- Watch for symptoms and call your doctor or poison control (1-800-222-1222) with questions.
Get ready now: checklist
Your checks save on this phone.
Common mistakes
- Going outside to pick up kids from school. Schools will shelter them.
- Leaving the HVAC running.
- Sealing a room so tight for too long without guidance. Follow official timing.
Keeping kids calm
- Call it 'indoor camping.'
- Bring books, games and snacks into the room.
- Explain: 'The air outside is yucky for a bit, so we're staying cozy inside.'
Gear that helps
- Plastic sheeting
- Duct tape: my pick, Gorilla Tough & Wide Heavy Duty Duct Tape, Black, 2.88 in x 25 yd
- Scissors
- Battery radio: my pick, Midland ER310
- Towels for door gaps
- Snacks and water
- Board games
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