A “Shelter-In-Place’ order may be issued, rather than an “Evacuation”, order during emergency situations such as severe weather, a hazardous material release, or an incident involving police activity where fewer people outside would provide a tactical advantage for the police and safety for the campus community. An order to “Shelter-In-Place” will be conveyed through official Buff State Alert notifications.

When a “Shelter-in-Place” order is issued:

  • Stop classes or work, or close business operations.
  • Stay inside the building or go inside a building as quickly as possible if you are outside.
  • Share the notification with others in the building, if possible, but do not leave the area where you are sheltering-in-place.
  • Close windows to provide a tighter seal against possible chemical vapors, smoke, and/or fumes.
  • In the event of a hazardous materials release, turn off fans, air conditioning or ventilation systems, if you have access to control these systems.
  • Locate supplies you may need such as food, water, cellphone, radio, flashlights, etc…
  • Remain in “Shelter-in-Place” until instructed otherwise through Buff State Alert.