Harris County Texas Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Shelter in Place

Potential hazardous events that may occur in Harris County or surrounding areas requiring residents to shelter in place include:

• Airborne Chemical Hazard
  • Close all outside doors and windows.
  • If safe to do so, turn off A/C and air handling systems.
  • Move away from outside windows and doors, as well as air ducts and ventilation systems.
• Violent Criminal Action:
  • Lock and barricade doors.
  • Move away from outside doors and windows.
  • Close window shades and turn off lights.
• Severe Weather Incident:
  • Move away from outside windows and doors, as well as large glass objects.
  • Avoid being underneath heavier objects that may fall.
  • Help direct people with special needs to a safe place, if necessary.
• Terrorist Attack:
  • Close and lock all doors and windows.
  • Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioner systems.
  • Call and check on family members and neighbors.
• General Planning:
  • Go inside and stay calm. Make sure all family members and pets are inside.
  • Have your emergency supply kit.
  • Choose a room in which to shelter. It should be an interior room with few or no windows, doors and vents. If possible, choose a room with a water supply.
  • Stay off the phone. Do not call police, fire or 9-1-1 unless you are reporting a police, fire or medical emergency at your location. Overloaded telephone circuits may keep actual emergency calls from getting through.
  • Stay indoors until local officials have given an “all-clear.”