Related to the above question, are there additional emergency precautions to take to prevent COVID-19 community spread if there is a need to evacuate to a public shelter? A3
In general, in the event of severe weather events, it is recommended that residents shelter inside their homes when possible. Basements are ideal as a below-ground storm shelter. If a storm shelter is not available, your next best protection is to take shelter in a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level of the house or building. A closet, bathroom, or an interior hallway on the lowest level could be used as a shelter. You should stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
If a public shelter is the best available refuge from severe weather, authorities agree that you should not let your concerns about the COVID-19 virus keep you from seeking public shelter for your safety.
You should take steps however to be sure you follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19 transmission prevention including practicing social distancing, wearing a face covering, and frequent hand washing. There may be additional guidelines issued by the local emergency management agency such as requiring individual screening before being admitted to the shelter.
You will need to determine what public storm shelters will be made available for shelter during the COVID-19 emergency. The information can be obtained from sources such as state and local emergency management agencies, social media, and city and county governments.