Shelter in Place: The term “SHELTER IN PLACE” means remaining inside whatever building you happen to be in at the time of an emergency. If you are outside, go immediately into an undamaged building nearby and stay there until you receive official notification that the emergency situation is over. Officials are likely to instruct people to shelter in place in the event of a report of criminal and/or suspicious activity or an emergency such as an explosion, or chemical spill that releases toxic dust, fumes, radiation, or chemicals outside.