Shelter-In-Place

Contrary to the natural instinct to flee from danger, staying where you are may provide the safest alternative.  Shelter-in-place is a simple and effective strategy of self-protection using the barriers and isolation provided by a building. All that is required is to:  

  • Get into or stay inside a building; if possible, go to an interior room with no exterior openings
  • Secure the building; secure the interior room  
  • Wait until the threat has ended and authorities give an “all clear”  

Shelter-in-place can be effectively used during:  

  • Active shooter incidents  
  • Chemical, biological, radiological and hazardous material emergencies  
  • Severe weather  

Emergencies of an unknown nature:  

  • Armed hostage or barricaded person  
  • Robbery in-progress  
  • Riot or other violent confrontation  
  • Explosive device  
  • Other unanticipated threat  

Additional Information on shelter-in-place is available on the following website:  

Ready.gov