Know What to Do When It Matters Most
Every community has the potential to experience emergencies and disasters. Being prepared starts with understanding the hazards that could affect Richmond and knowing how to respond when conditions change.
During most emergencies, the safest response will be one of two things: leave the area and go somewhere safe, or stay where you are and shelter in place.
If the City of Richmond or emergency officials issue an Evacuation Order or Shelter-in-Place instruction, follow the directions provided and continue monitoring trusted sources for updated information.
Review Hazards in Richmond →
Evacuating
In some emergencies, the safest action is to leave the area and go somewhere safe. If emergency officials issue an evacuation order, leave promptly and follow the directions provided.
Evacuations may be required because of fire, hazardous materials, flooding, infrastructure damage or other hazards that make it unsafe to remain where you are.
If you are told to evacuate:
- Leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Take your emergency kit, medications, identification and essential items.
- Follow designated routes and instructions from emergency officials.
- Check in at a reception centre if one has been established.
- Do not return home until authorities advise that it is safe.
A household emergency plan and a grab-and-go bag can help you leave more quickly and reduce stress during an evacuation.
Shelter in Place
In some emergencies, the safest action is to stay indoors and remain where you are. Shelter-in-place instructions may be issued when conditions outside could place you at greater risk.
This may happen during hazardous materials incidents, severe weather, smoke events or other emergencies where leaving the area is not the safest option.
If you are told to shelter in place:
- Go indoors immediately and bring pets inside if possible.
- Close and lock windows and doors.
- Turn off fans, heating, air conditioning or ventilation systems if instructed.
- Move to an interior room away from windows if needed.
- Monitor official updates and stay inside until authorities say it is safe.
Water, food, medications, pet supplies, flashlights and a way to receive emergency updates can help your household remain safe and comfortable while sheltering in place.
