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Emergency

Shelter in place (Go in, stay in, tune in)

What to do if you're told to stay indoors during an incident in the UK — the official 'Go in, stay in, tune in' advice.

WHAT TO DO NOW

  1. 1Go inside the nearest safe building and stay there.
  2. 2Close all windows and doors; turn off ventilation, fans and air conditioning if advised.
  3. 3Tune in to BBC local radio, TV or official channels for instructions.
  4. 4Keep your phone line free for emergency use; contact family briefly to say you're safe.
  5. 5Do not go outside until the authorities say it is safe.
  6. 6If you smell gas or chemicals inside, move to a room away from the source and seal gaps if advised.

What not to do

  • Do not go outside to look at what is happening.
  • Do not phone 999 for information — keep lines clear unless there is danger to life.
  • Do not spread unverified information.

What is it?

Sheltering in place means staying inside a safe building to protect yourself, usually during a chemical, biological, radiological or security incident. The UK advice is 'Go in, stay in, tune in'.

What might happen?

You may be asked to stay indoors for a short time while responders deal with a hazard outside. Roads may be closed and there may be a visible emergency-service presence.

First 10 minutes

Get everyone inside. Close and lock windows and doors. Turn off ventilation. Tune in for instructions.

First hour

Stay in an internal room if advised. Keep listening to official updates. Reassure others. Only leave if told to evacuate.

First 24 hours

Remain indoors until the all-clear. Follow any advice about washing, ventilation or discarding exposed clothing after a chemical incident.

If it continues for several days

Follow official guidance for the specific hazard. The instruction will be lifted when it is safe; do not rely on rumour.

Children

Keep children calm and occupied indoors; explain you are staying inside to be safe.

Older & vulnerable people

Check on vulnerable neighbours by phone; help anyone who needs support to stay safely indoors.

Pets

Bring pets inside; keep them calm and away from external doors and windows.

Communications

Battery/wind-up radio and official channels are your best source. Keep your phone charged and lines free.

Official sources

This guidance is an editorial explanation of official UK advice. Always follow instructions from the authorities.

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