A SHELTER response is activated when specific protective actions are needed based on a hazard or threat. For example, it might be activated during a natural disaster such as an earthquake, blizzard, or flooding, or in response to a hazardous materials situation. Depending on the type of emergency, students and staff members will use an appropriate safety strategy for the hazard. For example, during a SHELTER response to an earthquake, students and staff members would be asked to drop, cover, and hold on. A SHELTER response to a hazardous materials situation might require that the classroom door be sealed. 

During a SHELTER response, school, district, and emergency personnel will communicate specific safety directives and monitor the situation until the response is lifted. If it becomes necessary to evacuate the building, a controlled release to parents will take place.