Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management

Kanawha-Charleston Evacuation Plans

Shelter-In-Place Guide

In certain emergencies, officials may issue a Shelter-In-Place order, covering areas from several blocks to a few miles. Alerts will be shared via local radio, TV, weather radio, social media, the KC Ready app, and reverse-911 calls.

Key steps to follow:

• Always have an information source available; rely only on official channels like Kanawha County social media.
• Prepare a Shelter-In-Place kit with heavy plastic sheeting, duct tape, and a battery-operated radio.
• Close and lock windows and doors; shut window coverings if explosion risk is present.
• Turn off fans, HVAC systems, and close fireplace dampers.
• Go to an interior, above-ground room without windows. For chemical threats, an above-ground room is safer.
• Bring pets along with food and water supplies.
• If possible, use a hard-wired phone for emergencies; avoid using it unless necessary.

Seal the room using plastic sheeting and duct tape around doors, windows, and vents. Stay tuned to official broadcasts until you’re informed it’s safe or instructed to evacuate.

After the “All Clear”:

• Open windows and doors to ventilate.
• Turn on heating/cooling systems.
• Go outside.