Shelter in Place

Learn how to effectively shelter in place during emergencies like earthquakes, tornadoes, and severe weather.

Shelter in Place. How to Stay Safe During Earthquakes, Tornadoes, and Severe Weather

In certain emergencies, staying put is the safest option. Whether it’s an earthquake, tornado, or severe weather event, knowing how to effectively shelter in place can protect you from harm. Here's what you need to know for each situation.  

Earthquakes 

When an earthquake strikes, immediate action can prevent injuries.

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold On. As soon as you feel shaking, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck with your arms, and if possible, take shelter under a sturdy piece of furniture. Hold on until the shaking stops.
  • Stay Indoors. Do not attempt to leave the building during the shaking. Most injuries occur from falling debris outside.
  • Avoid Windows and Heavy Objects. Move away from windows, mirrors, and anything that could fall, such as bookshelves or ceiling fixtures. 
  • Wait for the All Clear. After the shaking stops, wait for official communication before exiting the building. Aftershocks may follow, so be prepared to drop, cover, and hold on again.   

Tornadoes 

When a tornado is approaching, taking shelter immediately is crucial. 

  • Move to a Safe Room or Basement. If available, go to a designated tornado shelter, basement, or a small, windowless interior room on the lowest level of the building.
  • Stay Away from Windows. Avoid windows at all costs. Flying debris from broken windows can cause serious injuries. 
  • Use Protection. If possible, cover yourself with a mattress, heavy blankets, or even a sturdy table to shield against flying debris. 
  • Wait for the All Clear. Stay sheltered until you receive an official announcement that the tornado threat has passed.   

Severe Weather 

During severe weather events like thunderstorms, hurricanes, or flash floods, it’s often safer to remain indoors. 

  • Seek Shelter Indoors. Stay inside a sturdy building and avoid going outdoors until the severe weather passes.
  • Avoid Using Electrical Appliances. Unplug electronics and avoid using them during a thunderstorm to prevent electrical shock from lightning strikes. 
  • Stay Informed. Keep a battery powered weather radio or a mobile device with emergency alerts on hand to stay updated on the situation. 
  • Move to Higher Ground in Flooding. If there is a risk of flash flooding, move to the highest level of the building but avoid basements and other areas where water may accumulate.  

General Shelter in Place Tips

Sheltering in place is about making the safest choice during unpredictable and dangerous situations. By understanding what to do in the event of an earthquake, tornado, or severe weather, you can protect yourself and others until the danger has passed.

  • Know Your Safe Spaces. Familiarize yourself with the safest places to shelter in each building you frequent on campus.
  • Keep Emergency Supplies Handy. If possible, have a small emergency kit with water, snacks, a flashlight, and first aid supplies in your shelter area.
  • Stay Calm and Informed. Remain calm, follow instructions from emergency personnel, and stay informed through official campus alerts or weather updates. 

For more detailed information and tips on how to shelter in place, explore the following resources.