Homeland Security Research

Research Highlights

Shelter-in-Place Guidelines Enhance Protection Potential

Sealing techniques recommended for sheltering in a residence. Click on the image for a larger version.

An ongoing EPA study has confirmed the usefulness of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) guidelines for preparing in-house shelters as protection against airborne biological, chemical, or radioactive hazards. The DHS guidelines recommend that people create in-place shelters in their homes by using an interior room with few or no windows and sealing openings with plastic sheeting and duct tape.

EPA evaluated the DHS guidelines. The evaluation’s results indicate that proper sealing can make a substantial difference in the effectiveness of the shelter. It is most beneficial, however, if people enter the shelter before the arrival of a cloud of hazardous agent and leave the shelter as soon as the cloud passes over.

Department of Homeland Security information about what to do if you need to stay where you are and protect yourself from contaminated air.