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Sheltering In Place Instructions Included With Library Books

Contact: Richard M. Krieg, CERN Chairman, 410-715-0311

A library card takes on a new meaning this week in the Howard County Library system. Patrons who check out books in each of the library's six branches will receive a laminated 8" x 5" card providing directions on sheltering in place in the wake of a major terrorist incident or natural disaster.

The card was developed by the Community Emergency Response Network (CERN), a group established by County Executive James N. Robey in 2001 to assist emergency planning, citizen mobilization and preparedness.

"Should the worst happen," said Richard M. Krieg, CERN Chairman, "Howard County residents might be on their own for three-six days. The ability to shelter in place could be critical to ensure family survival."

In the event of a large scale terrorist event in Washington, DC, Krieg noted, "Our front line responders might be deployed there and the food supply might be disrupted. Survivability could depend on having enough food on hand to make it through the initial period."

The two-sided emergency card encourages residents to "Be Responsible. Be Ready." It provides a "to-do list" of steps to take should sheltering in place or evacuation be required.

Among the suggestions are putting together a kit of supplies for sheltering in place, as well as a portable kit it in the event of evacuation. Picking an off-site meeting place and making arrangements with an out-of-town connection are also recommended, as is buying a battery-powered radio and batteries and learning how to shut off home utilities.

The card is part of a coordinated campaign that has included full-page newspaper ads in local newspapers. The card will also be distributed to 800 members of the Howard County Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Howard County government distributed a brochure with detailed directions on survivability at home to each household in the county.

With approximately 50 members, including the county's fire and police chiefs, CERN has worked closely with local front line responders to do contingency planning and conduct exercises that check emergency procedures. This includes community shelter planning, the development of a Safe Schools Campaign with the Howard County Public School System and mobilization exercises with the public schools and Howard Community College.

The public is encouraged to visit the CERN website at www.cern.us for more information, including the card in downloadable form.