**Falls Township Shelter in Place: A Comprehensive Guide**

Introduction

In the event of an impending disaster or emergency, residents of Falls Township may be advised to shelter in place. This means staying indoors and taking steps to protect themselves from outside hazards. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for and navigate a shelter-in-place order in Falls Township.

What is a Shelter-in-Place Order?

A shelter-in-place order is issued by local authorities when there is a perceived threat to public safety, such as a natural disaster, chemical leak, or active shooter. The order requires residents to remain indoors and secure their homes to minimize exposure to the hazard.

When Should You Shelter in Place?

You should shelter in place when instructed to do so by authorized officials. These instructions may be communicated through emergency broadcasts, social media, or text messages.

How to Prepare for a Shelter-in-Place Order

Gather essential supplies:

• Water: 1 gallon per person per day for three days
• Non-perishable food: Canned goods, granola bars, energy drinks
• First aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers
• Medications: Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications
• Flashlight: With extra batteries
• Portable radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank
• Cash: ATMs may not be accessible
• Copies of important documents: Passports, insurance cards, medical records

Secure your home:

• Close and lock all windows and doors.
• Reinforce windows with plywood or hurricane shutters.
• Turn off gas, water, and electricity at the main valves.
• Move valuable items to higher ground.

What to Do During a Shelter-in-Place Order

Stay indoors:

• Remain in your designated safe space, typically an interior room with no windows.
• Keep doors and windows closed.
• Monitor local news and emergency broadcasts for updates.

Protect yourself from hazards:

• If there is a chemical release, cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth and seal any gaps around doors and windows.
• In case of a fire, use a fire extinguisher or wet towel to smother small flames.
• If you are in imminent danger, call 911.

Stay informed:

• Listen to local news and emergency broadcasts for updates and instructions.
• Check social media and official websites for accurate information.
• Use battery-powered or hand-crank radios for communication.

Minimize stress:

• Take breaks from news and updates.
• Engage in calming activities such as reading, listening to music, or doing puzzles.
• Stay connected with family and friends by phone or text.

Ending a Shelter-in-Place Order

When the shelter-in-place order is lifted, you should:

• Open windows and doors to ventilate your home.
• Check for damage and report any hazards.
• Dispose of expired food and contaminated water.
• Replenish emergency supplies.

Strategies for Effective Shelter-in-Place

• Plan ahead: Prepare an emergency kit and rehearse shelter-in-place procedures with your family.
• Stay calm: Panic can impair your ability to make sound decisions.
• Listen to instructions: Follow the guidance of authorized officials and emergency responders.
• Be prepared: Have essential supplies, such as food, water, and medicines, on hand.
• Stay informed: Monitor news and emergency broadcasts for updates and instructions.

Pros and Cons of Sheltering in Place

Pros:

• Reduces exposure to outside hazards
• Allows for quick and easy warning and response
• Can help prevent panic and confusion
• Maintains order and minimizes chaos

Cons:

• Can be stressful and confining
• May not be suitable for all situations
• Requires access to essential supplies
• Can impact availability of emergency services

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long will the shelter-in-place order last?

The duration of the order will vary depending on the nature and severity of the emergency.

2. What if I have to leave my home during the order?

Only leave your home if it is absolutely necessary and follow the instructions of emergency responders.

3. What do I do if my home is damaged during the order?

Report any damage to your home or property to emergency services or local officials.

4. What if I run out of essential supplies?

Conserve supplies and ration food and water. If possible, try to coordinate with neighbors to share resources.

5. How do I stay safe from chemical releases?

Cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth and seal any gaps around windows and doors.

6. What if I have a medical emergency?

Call 911 immediately and follow the instructions of emergency responders.

Call to Action

Prepare for a shelter-in-place order by gathering essential supplies, securing your home, and planning ahead. Stay informed and follow the instructions of authorized officials during the order. By working together, we can mitigate the risks and protect the community in the event of an emergency.

Tables for Reference

Table 1: Essential Shelter-in-Place Supplies

Table 2: Hazards and Protective Measures

Table 3: Pros and Cons of Sheltering in Place