National Preparedness Month Published Sept. 25, 2008 By Bill Pichette 92nd Air Refueling Wing installation emergency manager FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- President Bush has declared September National Preparedness Month. To quote his proclamation: "During National Preparedness Month, we underscore the important responsibility Americans have to be ready for emergencies in our homes, businesses and communities." Recently we have heard some incorrect information about shelter in place. So let's clear up misconceptions. Shelter in place is a short-term, temporary solution to protect a population when evacuation is not a good option. SIP may be used for areas of dense population or when evacuation routes put people in a possible hazard area. SIP is primarily used for hazardous chemical events and has successfully saved lives and minimized injury in the past. The practical theory is that chemicals stay low to the ground (they're heavier than air) and do not immediately absorb into structures. It is a short-term solution because eventually the chemicals will absorb into every surface. SIP will be declared by the incident commander (usually a fire chief) and must be acted on immediately to prevent casualties from fast-moving chemical hazards. SIP is not a planned or coordinated event - there is no time to recall commanders or unit appointees. It is not a security lock down (leave the doors unlocked!) and it is not an option for extreme weather events. SIP is not for conventional, biological or radiological emergencies or threat. Every facility on base is required to have SIP areas with adequate space and supplies for expected population. There are specific steps in preparing for and executing a good shelter-in-place program, whether in the work place or in your home. Please contact your unit emergency management representatives for further information.