How to Make a Safe Room for a Chemical Attack

Safe rooms are built to protect you in the case of a chemical, biological or nuclear attack. A safe room is a secure room or location on your property that prevents dangerous substances from entering the room. Its intended purpose is mitigating the effects of deadly chemicals. You can build a safe room within your own home.

Things You'll Need

  • Duct tape
  • Working phone
  • Water
  • Non-perishable food
  • Breathing filters
  • Clear plastic film
  • Scissors
  • HEPA filter
  • Caulk
  • Weather stripping
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pick a room in the interior of your home, preferably on an upper floor, to convert to your safe room. Chemicals are heavier than air and will sink, so you'll be safer on a higher floor. Your safe room should have as few windows as possible to minimize entry points for dangerous chemicals.

    • 2

      Attach a HEPA filter to all ventilation ducts in the room to help filter and clean the air in the case of an air-based chemical attack.

    • 3

      Stock the room with at least 72 hours worth of fresh water, non-perishable food items, duct tape, breathing filters rated N95 or better for each family member, pet food if needed, clear plastic film, a working phone and scissors.

    • 4

      Seal any windows with weather stripping and caulk. By sealing the windows prior to an attack, you won't have to rush to close off the windows in the event that a chemical attack happens.

    • 5

      Tape the clear plastic film over the windows and doors using duct tape and scissors once you've entered the room after an attack.

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