East Oregonian
February 14, 2003

CSEPP urges residents to learn its shelter-in-place techniques

HERMISTON - Local residents are being urged this month to practice how to shelter in place in case of an accident at the Umatilla Chemical Depot.

A month-long public information campaign initiated by the local Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program comes at the same time that the federal Office of Homeland Security is urging Americans to build up a supply of emergency food and other items in the event of a terrorist chemical or biological attack.

Local residents should have a shelter-in-place kit ready in case of an emergency. The kit includes duct tape, plastic sheeting, scissors and instructions on how to seal off windows and doors to protect people at home and at work.

Over the past few years, CSEPP officials have distributed shelter-in-place kits to homes and businesses within a 10-mile radius of the Umatilla Chemical Depot. To obtain a kit, visit your local city hall or stop by the Chemical Disposal Outreach office at 190 E. Main St., Hermiston.

From Feb. 28 through March 2, CSEPP officials will demonstrate shelter-in-place procedures at the KOHU Radio Home and Garden Show, which will be held at the Hermiston Community and Convention Center, 415 S. Hwy. 395.

For more information about preparing for a chemical emergency, contact your local CSEPP public information officer. In Pendleton, call 966-3703; in Boardman, call 481-3424.