Emergency Guidelines for the Campus Community

Shelter in Place

During certain emergency situations, particularly chemical releases, radioactive material releases and some weather emergencies, you may be advised to “Shelter in Place” rather than evacuate the building. 

1. Go or stay inside the building. 
2. Do not use elevators.
3. Shut and lock all windows and doors.
4. Turn off the heat, air conditioning or ventilation system, if you have local controls for these systems.  Most University buildings have ventilation systems controlled centrally by Facilities Engineering.
5. Close fireplace dampers.
6. Quickly locate supplies you may need, e.g., food, water, radio, etc.
7. If possible, go to a room or corridor where there are no windows.  In the event of a chemical release, go to an above-ground level of the building, since some chemicals are heavier than air and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed.
8. If possible, monitor for additional information via the main University web page, radio (88.1, 97.5, 101.5, 103.3, 1350, 1450, 1490) or television for further instructions.
9. Do not call 911 unless you are reporting a life-threatening situation.

• In the event of a chemical, biological or radioactive material release requiring Shelter-in-Place, seal doors and windows with duct tape and/or plastic sheeting.
• Cover cracks under doors with damp towels.

• Open windows and doors.
• Turn on heating, air conditioning or ventilation system.
• Go outside and wait until the building has been vented.

©2003 The Trustees of Princeton University. Last modified 11-May-2006 11:42 by Robin M. Izzo