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1. What is Shelter in Place?

Shelter In Place is a short term way to protect yourself in the event of an emergency in a predetermined room in your home, school or work site. Contact the Suffolk Emergency Management Office for more details at 757-514-4536.

2. Why would a Shelter in Place (SIP) be Issued?

This is a precaution aimed to keep you safe while remaining indoors. You may be advised to shelter in place by emergency management officials for the following events:
- Biological Attack
- Chemical Release
- Law Enforcement Activity
- Nuclear Release
- Weather Emergencies
- Wild Fires

Contact the Suffolk Emergency Management Office for more details at 757-514-4536.

3. What is Shelter in Place (SIP) for a Chemical Release?

"Shelter In Place" (SIP) instructions may be given in an emergency where hazardous materials may have been released into the Atmosphere. This is a precau­tion aimed to keep you safe while remaining indoors. (This is not the same thing as going to a shelter in case of a storm.)

If emergency officials direct you to SIP, take yourself and anyone near you inside an enclosed structure, whether it's a house, business, garage, or vehicle. If you know of an invalid or unattended child in your neighborhood, call them and tell them to remain indoors. Keep any pets inside. Evacuation may be an appropriate precaution during a flood or hurricane, but you should not attempt an evac­uation during a chemical emergency unless specifically directed to do so by emergency officials.

Even a poorly sealed building or vehicle provides some protection against chemical vapors. If you are inside a vehicle, close your vehicle's doors and windows, and turn off the vehicle's air conditioning and ventilation system.

Contact the Suffolk Emergency Management Office for more details at 757-514-4536.

4. What do I need for Shelter in Place?

Your SIP supply kit should include the following items:
- 5 Gallon Bucket and trash bags.
- Bath-size towels (For wetting and placing at the bottom of doors)
- Battery operated AM/FM radio
- Canned food, other ready-to-eat food, and bottled water
- Emergency Contact Numbers
- First Aid kit and required medications
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Manual can opener
- Phone and charger
- Plastic sheeting (example: drop cloth, window plastic, etc.) pre-cut to the size of the openings that need to be closed off in your shelter room
- Wide tape (Example: duct tape)

Store your kit in a convenient and secure location known to all family members. Stored water and food should be replaced every six months. Reevaluate your kit and family needs at least once a year and replace batteries.

Contact the Suffolk Emergency Management Office for more details at 757-514-4536.

5. How do I prepare?

For more information, visit How to Prepare to Shelter in Place.