Shelter in Place

Go inside and follow instructions.

Shelter in Place means conditions outside may be more dangerous than remaining indoors. Go inside and follow the specific instructions issued for the incident.

The actions may be different depending on the emergency. A hazardous-material release may require closing doors and windows and shutting off outside air, while smoke conditions may require a different set of actions. Do not assume every Shelter in Place instruction is the same.

If You Are Told to Shelter in Place

  • Go indoors immediately
  • Bring children, pets, and service animals inside
  • Close and lock exterior doors and windows
  • Move away from windows if directed
  • Take medications, medical equipment, phones, and chargers with you
  • Monitor official alerts and instructions
  • Do not leave until officials say it is safe or give you new instructions
  • Call 911 only for an immediate emergency

Depending on the Emergency

Hazardous Materials

  • Close doors and windows
  • Turn off fans, air conditioning, and systems that bring outside air indoors if instructed
  • Move to an interior room if directed
  • Avoid unnecessary travel through the affected area

Smoke or Poor Air Quality

  • Stay indoors
  • Keep doors and windows closed
  • Use air conditioning or filtration on recirculate when appropriate
  • Avoid activities that increase indoor air pollution
  • Limit strenuous activity

Police Activity

  • Go inside and secure doors
  • Stay away from windows
  • Keep everyone indoors
  • Do not enter the affected area
  • Follow law-enforcement instructions

Severe Weather

  • Move to the safest part of the building
  • Stay away from windows
  • Be prepared for power outages
  • Continue monitoring official information

And I would add one prominent callout:

Do not leave simply because conditions appear to improve. Wait for official instructions

 

Back to top