Evacuations

Emergency Shelters are used to provide an evacuation location for citizens in case of emergency or disaster. When possible you should consider relocating to a friend or relative out of harms way, or any safe hotels/motels as an alternative to emergency shelters.

Working in conjunction with the American Red Cross, Rutherford County has a vast list of shelter locations which mostly consists of city and county schools. In the event shelters are needed and activated you will be instructed to locations that will be opened for you to utilize.

Some types of events may require evacuation. Other events may require sheltering “In-place”. Click on the links above to learn about each type of evacuation method and steps to take in each situation.

The term Shelter-In-Place, means to seek immediate shelter and remain there during an emergency rather than evacuating the area. There are occasions when the option to evacuate is not considered (e.g., a time constraint, or when evacuation would subject you to greater risk). Unless otherwise instructed to evacuate, sheltering in a pre-determined safe location in your home or place of work is the preferred method of safely waiting out a hazardous materials release. In place sheltering usually lasts no more than one-to-two hours and preparations, made in advance, can ensure that the event is as comfortable as possible.

First, remain calm. Do not call 911 unless you are reporting an immediate life-threatening situation. Do not attempt to get your children from their school or day care center. Staff members are trained to protect your children and will institute shelter-in-place procedures where they are located.

Local officials on the scene are the best source of information for your particular situation.
Follow their instructions during and after emergencies.
Remember that instructions to shelter-in-place are usually provided for duration of only a few hours, not days or weeks.

• Close and lock all windows and exterior doors.

• If you are told there is danger of explosion, close the window shades, blinds or curtains.

• Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems.

• Close the fireplace damper.

• Get your family disaster supplies kit and make sure the radio, TV, or weather alert radio is working.

• Go to an interior room without windows that's above ground level. In the case of a chemical threat, an above-ground location is preferable because some chemicals are heavier than air, and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed.

• Bring your pets with you, and be sure to bring additional food and water supplies for them.

• It is ideal to have a hard-wired telephone in the room you select. Call your emergency contact and have the phone available if you need to report a life-threatening condition. Cellular telephone equipment may be overwhelmed or damaged during an emergency.

• Use duct tape and plastic sheeting (heavier than food wrap) to seal all cracks around the door and any vents into the room.

• Keep listening to your radio or television until you are told all is safe or you are told to evacuate. Local officials may call for evacuation in specific areas at greatest risk in your community.

Local officials on the scene are the best source of information for your particular situation.
Follow their instructions during and after emergencies.
Remember that instructions to shelter-in-place are usually provided for duration of only a few hours, not days or weeks.