When a hurricane shelter-in-place order goes out, it means the outside conditions are just too dangerous for travel.
Stay indoors, keep away from windows, and stick to the safest part of your building. That’s honestly the best way to avoid injury.
This helps protect you from high winds, flying debris, and sudden flooding that can pop up during the storm.
A shelter-in-place plan works best if you’ve prepped ahead of time. That means securing your home, gathering supplies, and knowing exactly where you’ll take cover once the storm hits.
If you have these steps ready, you’ll be safer and avoid scrambling at the last minute.
Knowing what a shelter-in-place order means, how to get your space ready, and what to do while waiting out the storm can really make the difference.
Understanding Hurricane Shelter-in-Place Orders
Local officials might tell residents to stay indoors instead of evacuating during a hurricane. They base this call on storm conditions, your location, and safety risks.
Understanding what a shelter-in-place order means, why officials issue it, and how it’s different from evacuation helps you make safer decisions.
What a Shelter-in-Place Order Means
A shelter-in-place order means you should stay inside a safe building until officials say it’s okay to leave.
During a hurricane, you should keep away from windows and exterior doors, and make sure your home is secured against strong winds and flying debris.
The main goal is to limit your exposure to falling objects, broken glass, and dangerous floodwaters.
You might shelter in place at home, work, or another sturdy building. The building needs to be well-built, outside the worst flood zones, and strong enough to handle big winds.
You’ll want to have some essentials ready, like:
- Water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food for several days
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid supplies
- Chargers for phones and radios
When Shelter-in-Place Is Issued for Hurricanes
Officials tell people to shelter in place when it’s just too risky to go outside.
This might happen if evacuation routes aren’t safe because of wind, flooding, or debris. Sometimes, it applies to people outside the main evacuation zones too.
You’ll usually hear about shelter-in-place orders through:
- Emergency alerts on your phone
- Local radio and TV
- Government websites and social media
The timing depends on how the storm is moving and how strong it is. Sometimes, you might have to shelter for several hours, or even more than a day.
Keep checking trusted sources for updates. Conditions can change fast, and sometimes a shelter-in-place order can switch to an evacuation order if things get worse.
Differences Between Shelter-in-Place and Evacuation
Shelter-in-place means you stay put in a safe spot until the danger passes. Evacuation means you leave the area for somewhere safer.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Shelter-in-Place | Evacuation |
|---|---|
| Stay indoors in a secure building | Travel to a safer location |
| Used when travel is unsafe or unnecessary | Used when staying is more dangerous |
| Usually shorter duration | Can last days or longer |
You’ll need to choose based on your location, how bad the storm is, and what officials say. Following emergency managers’ instructions is always the safest bet.
Preparing Your Home and Emergency Supplies
You can lower your risk during a hurricane shelter-in-place order by gathering supplies, securing your building, protecting against water and wind, and making sure you can get official alerts.
These steps help keep you safe and able to meet basic needs if things get rough.
Building an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit should cover your basic needs for at least a few days.
Water is critical, so stash at least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation.
Stock up on non-perishable food that doesn’t need cooking.
Include a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any prescription meds you need. Use flashlights with extra batteries instead of candles to avoid fire risks.
Other smart things to pack:
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Cell phone chargers or a portable power bank
- Personal hygiene items
- Copies of ID and important documents in waterproof bags
Keep your kit somewhere easy to grab when the storm starts.
Securing Your Shelter Location
Pick an interior room with no windows—think hallway, bathroom, or closet.
This helps protect you from broken glass and flying debris.
If your building has more than one floor, the lower level is usually safer from wind, but avoid basements if flooding is a concern.
Make sure there’s enough space for everyone in your household (and pets!), plus your emergency supplies.
Put sleeping gear, blankets, and pillows in there before the storm hits.
Close all interior doors to slow down wind moving through the house. Keep a flashlight and radio in your shelter spot so you can get updates without leaving.
Protecting Against Flooding and Wind Damage
Before the storm, cover windows and glass doors with storm shutters or plywood.
Secure outdoor stuff like patio furniture, grills, and trash bins so they don’t turn into flying hazards.
Clear gutters and drains so water can flow away from your home.
If flooding is possible, move valuables and electronics to higher shelves or upper floors.
Fill bathtubs and clean containers with water for washing and flushing toilets if the water supply stops.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy, and make sure everyone knows how to use it.
Seal gaps around doors and windows with weather stripping or plastic sheeting to help keep water out.
Ensuring Access to Emergency Alerts
You need reliable info during a hurricane.
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio tuned to local stations or the National Weather Service for updates.
Sign up for local emergency text or email alerts if you can.
The National Hurricane Center posts official storm tracking and forecast info online.
Have backup power for your phone, like solar chargers or battery packs, and store them in your shelter area.
Don’t rely only on internet or cable—they might go out during a power outage.
Using more than one alert source gives you a better shot at getting critical instructions.
Creating a Family Disaster Plan
A prepared household knows who does what, how to stay in contact, and how to manage critical health needs during a shelter-in-place order.
Clear planning keeps things from getting chaotic and ensures everyone has what they need.
Assigning Roles and Responsibilities
Give each family member a specific role. This way, you don’t double up on tasks and nothing gets missed.
For example:
| Role | Key Duties |
|---|---|
| Lead Communicator | Monitors official updates from emergency personnel and the American Red Cross, and shares info with the family. |
| Safety Officer | Secures doors and windows, and moves people to the safest interior room. |
| Supply Manager | Keeps track of and hands out food, water, and emergency supplies. |
| Pet Caregiver | Makes sure pets are safe, fed, and contained. |
Kids can help with age-appropriate jobs, like grabbing flashlights or securing small items.
Make sure everyone knows their role before the storm starts.
Communication Protocols
If you’re sheltering in place, outside communication might be limited.
Decide on a main and backup way to stay in touch if you get separated inside the house or if someone needs to leave the room for a quick safety check.
Write down emergency contacts—local authorities, hospitals, relatives—and keep the list waterproof.
If the power or cell service goes out, battery-powered radios are a must for updates.
The American Red Cross and local emergency agencies often broadcast shelter-in-place info.
Set up a check-in schedule, maybe every 30 minutes, so everyone can confirm they’re okay without draining batteries.
Special Needs and Prescription Medications
People with medical conditions or disabilities need extra planning.
Keep at least a 7-day supply of prescription meds in their original containers, in a waterproof, clearly labeled bag.
If someone uses medical equipment that needs power, figure out backup power options like battery packs or generators, and test them before hurricane season.
Write down any special care instructions and keep them with the meds.
If someone has mobility challenges, put needed items—like walkers or wheelchairs—inside the safe room before the storm.
That way, they’re not struggling to grab things in dangerous conditions.
Choosing and Setting Up Your Shelter Location
A safe shelter should protect you from high winds, flying debris, and water coming in.
It needs to be stocked with essentials and set up to keep everyone safe for as long as needed.
Selecting the Safest Room
Usually, the safest spot is an interior room on the lowest floor.
It shouldn’t have windows and should be surrounded by sturdy walls.
Bathrooms, closets, and hallways often work well.
Avoid rooms with exterior walls, skylights, or big openings.
If you’re in a flood-prone area, pick the highest safe interior room above expected water levels.
Mobile homes just aren’t safe during hurricanes.
If you’re in one, evacuate to a storm shelter or a public building built for hurricanes.
Clear the room of loose objects that could fly around.
Bring in emergency supplies like water, food, first aid kits, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio before the storm.
Sealing the Shelter Space
Strong winds can push rain and debris through tiny cracks.
Seal gaps around doors, vents, and windows with plastic sheeting and duct tape.
This helps keep water and dust out.
If you don’t have exterior shutters, cover windows from the inside.
Use heavy plywood or thick plastic sheeting for extra protection.
If the door has glass panels, reinforce it with a mattress or heavy furniture pushed up against it.
Make sure you can still get some ventilation if you’re in there for a long time.
Don’t seal it up so tight that it gets unsafe to breathe.
Accommodating Pets and Vulnerable Individuals
Bring pets into the shelter with their carriers, food, and water.
Keep them secure so they don’t panic or get hurt during the storm.
People with medical needs should have meds, mobility aids, and any equipment they need.
Backup power, like battery packs, might be necessary for some medical devices.
For infants, have diapers, formula, and comfort items ready.
For older adults, provide seating, blankets, and easy restroom access if possible.
Lay out the space so everyone has enough room to sit or lie down, but don’t block exits or supplies.
Staying Safe During the Hurricane
Stay in the safest part of your home, away from windows and glass doors, and keep your essential supplies close.
Good lighting, safe backup power, and constant access to official updates really help lower risks when you’re sheltering indoors.
Actions to Take Indoors
Stick to a small, windowless room or hallway on the lowest level that’s not at risk of flooding.
Interior bathrooms, closets, or basements are usually the best bet against wind and debris.
Close all interior doors to stop wind moving through your house.
If needed, use heavy furniture or mattresses for extra protection.
Keep a flashlight handy in case you lose power.
Skip the candles—they’re just a fire risk.
Keep your emergency kit nearby with water, food, first aid stuff, and your important documents.
If you have pets, keep them in carriers or confined to a safe room so they don’t get scared and bolt into dangerous areas.
Managing Power Outages and Generators
Power outages might last hours or even days during a hurricane.
Turn off and unplug electronics to protect them from surges when the power comes back.
Keep your fridge and freezer closed to hold in the cold.
Use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns, not open flames.
Store extra batteries somewhere dry and easy to reach.
If you use a generator, set it up outside and at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents.
Never run a generator in the garage, even with the door open.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use and fuel storage.
If you’re unsure about temporary power options, check with FEMA or the American Red Cross for guidance.
Avoiding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Fuel-burning equipment like generators, camp stoves, and grills produce it.
Don’t use these devices indoors, in garages, or in partially enclosed spaces. Even if you think there’s enough ventilation, CO can build up fast and poison you.
Set up a battery-powered CO detector if you don’t already have one. Test it before the storm hits, and keep extra batteries handy just in case.
If the alarm goes off, get everyone outside right away and call emergency services. Headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion often signal CO poisoning.
Staying Informed and Connected
During a hurricane, you need reliable information. Grab a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio to get official alerts if you lose power or internet.
Charge your cell phones and backup power banks before the storm. Try to save battery by cutting back on non-essential use.
Listen for instructions from local authorities about sheltering, evacuation, and hazards. FEMA and the American Red Cross send updates through radio, mobile apps, and social media.
Check in with family or friends when you can, just to let them know you’re okay and share any updates. Try not to spread rumors or unverified info—it just makes things more confusing.
After the Shelter-in-Place Order Is Lifted
When authorities lift a shelter-in-place order, you could still face hazards in the area. Floodwaters, damaged buildings, and downed power lines are serious risks even after the storm.
Assessing Safety Before Leaving
Before you step outside, make sure conditions are actually safe. Local officials, FEMA updates, and emergency broadcasts usually have the best info.
Look out for these hazards:
| Hazard | Why It’s Dangerous |
|---|---|
| Flooded roads | Strong currents, hidden debris, contamination |
| Downed power lines | Electrocution risk, even if lines look inactive |
| Damaged buildings | Risk of collapse or falling debris |
If water is still around your home, don’t walk or drive through it. Even shallow water can hide sharp objects or unstable ground.
Check for gas leaks, broken glass, and weakened walls inside before you re-enter any building.
Communicating with Emergency Personnel
Emergency crews will probably still be working to restore services and clear hazards. Follow their instructions and steer clear of restricted areas.
Get updates through official channels like:
- NOAA Weather Radio
- Local government text alerts
- Verified social media accounts from emergency management agencies
If you need help, give clear details about where you are, what kind of help you need, and any immediate dangers. That way, responders can prioritize.
Report hazards like exposed wires or blocked roads to local authorities. Don’t try to fix these problems yourself.
Next Steps for Recovery
When it feels safe enough to get moving, people can finally start recovery efforts. That might mean documenting property damage for insurance, calling the utility companies, or just clearing out debris.
Take photos or shoot some video before cleaning up anything. Insurance companies and FEMA usually want to see this proof.
If you’re staying in your home, make sure you’ve got clean drinking water and that your fridge is working.
During hurricane season, it’s smart to restock emergency supplies fast. Another storm could pop up before you’ve had a chance to fully recover.