HomeMy WebLinkAboutShelter "Manners" Patsy Anne Reynolds
Specialist in Family Life Education
SHELTER "T IANNERS"
Times of crisis take a lot out of us all. We may think that manners
are unessential in times of distress such as riding out a hurricane or
nuclear attack. Not so ", says our experience during Hurricane Carla.
In fact one of the weakest points in our action at this time was poor
shelter manners.
When many people are crowded together in public shelter it is
extremely important that we think of the welfare of others. Surely
you are tired and worried about the damage to your home: Of course
your children are irritable and tired of being cooped up! That's no
excuse. Everyone else in the shelter has those problems.
What can you do to be sure you practice good shelter manners? First
do what the shelter manager asks you to do. The health and safety of
everyone in the shelter depends on how well you follow his leadership.
Then, be considerate of others.
Avoid talking at night. Turn out lights for the night when you are
asked to do so. Use only the cots, food, etc. assigned to you. If you
have a portable radio play it softly at all times and especially at night.
Avoid loud shouting or talking any time.
Children need special attention. Take along their favorite small
toys and books when you go to the shelter. Read, tell stories, draw
or play word games with them. Do not allow them to run through the aisles
or handle other people's property. Your children are your responsibility
and one important rule of shelter manners is to help them be considerate
of others.