Going to an Emergency Shelter
A shelter is a place of last resort when your home is unsafe or you are told to evacuate. It offers a safe place to sleep, but space is limited and it can be crowded. A little planning makes the stay easier and safer.
- Families
- Homeowners
- Renters
Before you go
- Listen to local officials for open shelters and routes. Locations change with the event. Call 211 or check your county emergency management site, the Red Cross app, or local radio
- Consider friends or family or a hotel outside the area first, if safe. Shelters are meant for people with no better option
- Take your go bag. See Emergency Kit
- Tell someone where you are going. See Family Emergency Plan
- Turn off utilities if told to and lock your home. See Shutting Off Utilities
What to bring
- Medications for at least several days, plus a list of conditions, doses and allergies. See Medication Safety.
- Medical items such as glasses, hearing aids, CPAP, inhalers, mobility aids and chargers.
- ID and key papers or copies, and insurance information.
- Pillow, blanket or sleeping bag, comfortable clothes and toiletries.
- Baby supplies, snacks for special diets and comfort items for children.
- Cash, a phone with a power bank, and a small flashlight.
- Quiet activities: books, cards, headphones.
Do not bring
- Weapons, alcohol or drugs. Shelters generally prohibit them.
- Pets, unless the shelter allows them. Service animals are allowed. Many areas have pet-friendly shelters nearby; ask ahead. See Pets & Emergencies.
- Valuables you cannot keep with you.
Staying safe and healthy
- Register when you arrive so family can find you.
- Keep children close and know where they are. Report any adult who makes you uneasy to shelter staff.
- Wash your hands often and cover coughs to limit illness. See Home First Aid for basic care.
- Keep valuables and medications with you or locked up.
- Follow the staff's rules about quiet hours, smoking and food.
- Tell staff about disabilities or access needs. Shelters must provide reasonable accommodation.
Standards & references
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