Field guide: shelter and warmth

Choose shelter before comfort. Get people out of wind, wet conditions, smoke, extreme temperature, and damaged structures. A dry supervised space with a way to call for help is usually more useful than an elaborate setup.

Choose the safest space

Do not remain with visible structural damage, active fire, gas smell, flooding, downed lines, or an official evacuation order. If it is safe indoors, use a smaller dry room, close interior doors, and use layers and bedding without blocking exits or ventilation.

Protect warmth without creating danger

• Remove wet clothing when a dry alternative is available; cover head, hands, and feet.
• Use layers and dry insulation before relying on high heat.
• Keep an exit route clear and monitor children, older adults, and anyone asleep.
• Never use grills, camp stoves, generators, or fuel-burning devices indoors, in garages, or near openings. Carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled.

When conditions worsen

Conserve battery power for alerts and contact. If the temperature is becoming unsafe, contact local emergency management, 211 where available, or emergency services for warming/cooling shelter information. Confusion, unusual sleepiness, loss of coordination, or worsening shivering need urgent medical attention.

Scope: Short-term civilian shelter guidance; it does not authorize entry into damaged buildings or replace professional advice.