What is the procedure called when people are instructed to remain inside a building during an emergency?

The procedure referred to when individuals are instructed to remain inside a building during an emergency is called shelter-in-place. This approach is typically used in situations where it may be safer for people to stay inside than to evacuate, such as during a chemical release or severe weather.

Shelter-in-place instructions often involve sealing windows and doors and turning off ventilation systems to protect against outside hazards. This method allows individuals to protect themselves from potential threats while remaining in a secure environment, where emergency services can assess the situation and manage a response.

In contrast, the other terms describe different actions: evacuation entails leaving the premises to a safer location, lockdown is primarily associated with securing a facility in response to threats such as an active shooter, and quarantine involves isolating people who may have been exposed to a contagious disease. Each term emphasizes distinct protocols that cater to various emergencies.