In the event of an emergency, you may be asked to shelter in place (stay put) or evacuate (flee). Authorities will advise you on which course of action to take.
You will not be asked to leave your home unless they have reason to believe you may be in danger.
SHELTER IN PLACE
If you are asked to shelter in place:
- Ensure everyone in your household, including pets, remain indoors
- Close all windows and doors
- Shut the air conditioning units
- Block off all vents with aluminum foil and duct tape
- Await further directions via local radio/news sources and/or emergency services
To prepare for the event where you are asked to shelter in place, ensure you have your
emergency kit ready.
EVACUATING
If you are asked to evacuate your home:
- Follow the directions of emergency personnel
- Let someone know that you've left and where you can be found
- Turn off your lights and appliances (except your refrigerator and freezer)
- Turn off or reduce your heat or air conditioning
- Lock your doors
WHAT TO BRING DURING AN EVACUATION
Remember to bring the following with you, if it is safe to do so:
- Your evacuation kit
- Cell phone, laptop, tablet, chargers, and battery banks
- Clothing and toiletries for each family member
- Formula, bottles, diapers, favourite books, games, and toys for infants and children
PETS AND EVACUATIONS
If safety permits, do not leave pets or service animals behind:
- Pets may become lost and/or not survive an emergency on their own
- Bring your pet's emergency kit with you
- Prepare a list of boarding facilities, veterinarians, and local animal shelters that could shelter an animal in an emergency situation and keep that list in your pet emergency kit
Learn more about returning home
after an evacuation.