What primary factor should determine whether to shelter in place during a non-fire emergency?

The primary factor that should determine whether to shelter in place during a non-fire emergency is the safety of occupants based on the situation. This means assessing the specific conditions present and understanding the risks that occupants might face.

In emergencies like hazardous material spills, active shooter situations, or severe weather, the immediate safety of individuals in the building can vary significantly. For example, if there is a chemical release outside, sheltering in place might be the safest option to avoid exposure, whereas if an active threat is present nearby, it may be safer to evacuate. A careful evaluation of the situation ensures that decisions are made to protect the well-being of everyone involved, taking into consideration imminent dangers and the effectiveness of remaining indoors versus evacuating.

While weather conditions, the presence of hazardous materials, and building evacuation procedures are all important to consider, they should be evaluated in light of whether they safeguard or compromise the occupants’ safety in that particular situation.