Under what condition should in-place sheltering be considered?

In-place sheltering should be considered when the hazardous material is dissipating and can be managed. This condition implies that the threat posed by the material is decreasing, which could allow individuals to remain safely indoors while minimizing exposure. When the hazardous material is diminishing in concentration or moving away from populated areas, staying inside a well-sealed building can be a practical solution to reduce risks associated with outdoor exposure.

This approach allows people to avoid unnecessary movement into potentially hazardous environments. If the situation allows for management of the dispersing material through sheltering, it is more effective than evacuation, which may put individuals at greater risk on their way to safety or in other unintended circumstances. Keeping the public in a secure location while the situation stabilizes enhances safety and reduces panic or chaos that an evacuation might cause.