During certain emergency situations and some weather emergencies, you may be advised to “shelter in place” rather than evacuate or leave the building.

If there is an emergency that is a risk to the public, your local officials will notify you by radio, TV, e-mail or cell/telephone. The outdoor warning sirens may be activated. If you hear the sirens, go inside and tune to a local radio or TV station and watch for alerts from CENS. If you are told there has been a hazardous materials release or a public health issue, most often there is not enough time for evacuation. The safest immediate action is to shelter-in-place while listening for further instructions.

• Stay inside the building.
• DO NOT go outside to investigate.
• Close all windows and doors.
• If you have a prepared emergency kit with essential disaster supplies, such as bottled water, nonperishable food, flashlights, radios, duct tape, plastic sheeting, first aid supplies, etc., take it with you.
• Follow instructions by Emergency Response Officials.