Shelter in Place – Shelter in Place is a directive to seek immediate shelter indoors following the announcement of an emergency condition. The act of sheltering in an area inside a building offers occupants an elevated level of protection. Sheltering can be related to a variety of situations: severe weather emergencies, hazardous condition, chemical release, or criminal activity.
In some instances, it is safer to shelter in place than to evacuate a building, e.g., smoke or fire is immediately outside your room; live electrical wires bar access to the exit; individuals with mobility disabilities are on upper or lower floors.
Shelter in Place can occur without a Lockdown.
Lockdown – The directive LOCKDOWN is used to stop access and/or outlet as appropriate, to all or a portion of the buildings on campus. Unless otherwise directed, consider that all buildings will initiate lockdown procedures.
Weather Warning – A warning is issued when a hazardous weather event is occurring, is imminent or has a very high probability of occurring. A warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property.
Weather Watch – A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so that those who need to set their plans in motion can do so.