Department of Emergency Management and Security

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.