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Close and lock all doors and windows to the outside. The
tighter the seal from the possible danger outside, the better.
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Building superintendents should confirm all ventilation systems
to 100% recirculation so that no outside air is drawn into
the structure. When this is not possible, ventilation systems
should be turned off.
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Turn off all heating systems.
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Turn off all air-conditioners and switch
inlets to the "closed" position.
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Seal any gaps around window type air-conditioners with tape
and plastic sheeting, wax paper, or aluminum wrap/foil.
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Turn off all exhaust fans in kitchens, bathrooms, and other
spaces.
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Close all fireplace dampers.
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Close as many internal doors as possible in your home or
other building.
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Select a room in the building where occupants will be the
most comfortable and which is easy to seal off. This room should,
if possible, provide access to water, toilet facilities, and
adequate room for people to sit or lie down. The room should
also have a battery powered radio, snack foods, and bottled
water.
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Use tape and plastic food wrapping such as Saran Wrap, Handi
Wrap etc., or aluminum wrap/foil to cover and seal exhaust
fan grilles, range vents, dryer vents, and other openings to
the outside to the extent possible. Obvious gaps around external
windows and doors should also be sealed.
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If the gas or vapor hazard 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.
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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 as
best as you can. Don't worry about running out of air to
breathe. That is highly unlikely in normal homes and buildings.
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If an explosion is possible outdoors, close all drapes, curtains,
and shades over windows and stay away from external windows
to prevent potential injury from flying glass.
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Minimize the use of elevators in buildings.
These tend to "pump" outdoor
air in and out of a building as they travel up and down.
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Tune into the Emergency Alert System Stations "KLVI
560AM" and "KQXY 94.1FM" on your battery operated
radio for further information and guidance.