Scenario Guide
Shelter in Place: What It Means and What to Do
Shelter in place means different things for different emergencies. Here's how to prepare and how to respond when the order comes.
Safety NoteShelter in place instructions vary significantly by the type of emergency. Always follow specific guidance from local emergency management, not general guidelines. For chemical or hazardous material incidents, FEMA and your local fire department have specific protocols.
Before: Prepare Now
- Maintain at least 2 weeks of food and water at home
- Have battery radio to receive information without internet
- Know how to shut off HVAC system (chemical hazard scenarios)
- Have plastic sheeting and duct tape on hand
- Know the difference between shelter types: general (stay home), chemical hazard (seal building), lockdown (lock doors and stay away from windows)
During: What to Do
- Turn on local news or weather radio immediately for specific instructions
- Follow the specific type of shelter order (not all are the same)
- Keep all windows and doors closed
- For chemical hazard: turn off HVAC and seal vents if instructed
- Fill bathtubs with water if supply disruption is possible
- Stay away from windows if a security situation is the cause
After: Recovery
- Wait for official all-clear before going outside
- Ventilate home (open windows) if a chemical hazard was the reason, once cleared
- Follow official guidance on re-entry
- Restock supplies used