Shelter and Pet Safety
In many disaster scenarios, evacuation is necessary. However, there are also situations where local authorities or conditions require people to take shelter—either at home, in a public emergency shelter, or in a temporary refuge facility. Understanding what to expect can make a high-stress situation more manageable.
Types of Shelters
- Shelter-in-Place: Staying in your current location—usually your home—while sealing off air and staying protected from external hazards (radiation, chemicals, etc.).
- Public Emergency Shelter: Operated by government or nonprofit agencies; provides basic needs to those displaced. Check American Red Cross, Salvation Army, or find local shelters.
- Medical Needs Shelters: Facilities equipped to support people with power-dependent medical equipment or specific care needs.
- Pet Co-Located Shelters: Some shelters accept pets in a separate but adjacent facility. Check Animal Human Society, Red Rover, or find local pet shelters.
What to Expect in a Public Shelter
- Check-In Process:
- Identification may be requested, but lack of ID will not deny entry.
- Registration helps with reunification and service delivery.
- What’s Provided:
- Basic meals, bottled water, limited bedding (cots, mats, blankets)
- Charging stations, security presence, basic first aid
- Social workers or mental health support in some shelters
- What to Bring:
- Medications and prescriptions
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, sanitary products)
- Important documents
- Comfort items (blanket, books, stuffed animal for children)
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Headphones for personal noise control
Sheltering with Pets
- Many public shelters now accommodate pets, but check in advance.
- Animals must typically be leashed, crated, or contained.
- Bring:
- Food and water bowls
- Veterinary records and vaccines
- Waste bags or litter box
- Medications
- Familiar toy or blanket
Note: Service animals are always allowed by law in all public shelters.
Sheltering at Home
If staying at home during an emergency:
- Choose an interior room with few windows.
- Stockpile essentials and have plastic sheeting and duct tape for sealing if needed.
- Prepare to lose power or water services—have flashlights, bottled water, and waste disposal plans ready.
Medical and Special Needs
If you rely on:
- Oxygen machines
- Refrigerated medications
- Mobility devices
Then pre-register with your local emergency management agency for medical needs sheltering. These shelters may be limited in capacity and should be arranged before disaster strikes.
Quick Tip:
Download your local county or state emergency services app to locate nearby shelters before you need them.
