Which statement best reflects shelter-in-place guidance?

• A. It is unsafe to leave the facility
• B. Evacuation is always preferred
• C. Shelter-in-place means relocating outdoors
• D. Shelter-in-place is only used during power outages

Answer: (A)

Shelter-in-place means staying inside the building and taking steps to protect yourself from hazards outside. Because the danger is outdoors, leaving the facility would expose you to the hazard, so the guidance is to remain inside until authorities say it’s safe. Inside, you may close and seal doors and windows, turn off exterior ventilation if told to, and follow official updates.

This is why the statement that leaving the facility is unsafe best reflects shelter-in-place guidance. Evacuation isn’t always the right choice—it’s used only when it’s safe and advised by authorities. And shelter-in-place isn’t about moving outdoors or limited to power outages; it’s used in various emergencies where staying put reduces exposure to external hazards.