What response activities should you do?
Response is the actions taken to save lives and protect property from damage during an emergency - it is putting preparedness plans into action. Here are some examples:
Shelter-In-Place
- Follow instructions from authorities if available to decide whether you should shelter-in-place or evacuate.
- Call 911 and report the emergency, if appropriate.
- Follow your emergency plan.
- In case of environmental release or threat:
- Tape around doors, windows, and vents, and place wet towels at bottom of doors, in order to seal out fumes and gases.
- Turn off air-exchange heating systems, air conditioners, and exhaust fans.
- Leave the electricity on.
- Use Fairfax Alerts and other sources to get information during the event.
Lockdown
- Do not panic - remain calm.
- Lock all doors and windows immediately. If a door can't be locked, quickly block the door with heavy items.
- Never open doors or windows unless ordered to do so by a verified public safety official. Always ask for documentation to confirm identity.
- Turn off all lights and close blinds or curtains.
- Instruct everyone in the room with you to stay low and away from windows and doors.
- Silence televisions, cell phones, and other electronics.
- Clear hallways, bathrooms, and any area or room that cannot be thoroughly secured.
- Assist those with access and functional needs if safe to do so.
- Remain indoors and under lockdown until you receive an "all clear" from authorized personnel.
- Follow all instructions from law enforcement personnel.
Evacuation from a Building
- Do not panic - remain calm.
- Do not run.
- In the event of a fire, do not open hot doors. Before opening any door, touch it near the top to see if it is hot.
- Do not use elevators.
- Do not break windows in a fire - oxygen feeds fires.
- Do not assist first responders unless you are asked to do so.
- Do not be rubber-necker - move away from the problem area, to your safe area. Remain there until you are instructed to return or relocate.
Area Evacuation
- Decide whether you should shelter-in-place or evacuate; defer to instructions from authorities.
- Follow your emergency plan.
- Grab your go bag and any additional food, cash, and supplies you might need.
- Don't forget your keys and your pets.
- Shut off your gas service. Learn where your utilities are and how to shut them off.
- Identify a destination, and advise your out-of-state contact (and others) to let them know where you are headed.
- Research your route, as some roads may be closed based on the event - check Fairfax County information resources and internet resources.
- Fuel up. Sometimes evacuations cause localized gas shortages.
Preparing for an Emergency Shelter
There are instances during which Fairfax County will open emergency shelters. The following are a few considerations if you have to relocate to a shelter.
- Bring your emergency go bag, including a three-day supply of any specialized supplies, such as:
- Special items for any older adults, children, or people with access and functional needs, including any assistive technology.
- Special food to accommodate any restrictions or allergies.
- Prescription pharmaceuticals, supplies, and devices necessary for health maintenance.
- If you have a pet(s):
- Verify that shelters are open to pets.
- Bring your pet(s) with you!
- Bring pet supplies.
