The need  for a General Evacuation of the City of Pittsburgh or the Downtown Area is a very unlikely eventuality.  The only projected need for a mass evacuation would be in the event of a nuclear attack or general warfare.  In every other instance, the concept of "in-place-sheltering" is the preferred method of protection.

In-place-sheltering means to seek immediate shelter and remain there during an emergency rather than evacuate the area—and risk exposure to the danger. There are occasions when the option to evacuate the area is not considered (e.g., a time  constraint, or when evacuation would subject you to greater risk—which is the majority of the time.). Unless otherwise  instructed to evacuate—such as in a fire which is isolated to a specific location, sheltering in a pre-determined safe location in your home or place of work is the preferred method of safely waiting out an emergency. In-place-sheltering usually lasts no more than one-to-two hours and preparations, made in advance, can ensure that the event is as comfortable as possible.

In-Place-Sheltering:  When and How 

The City of Pittsburgh Emergency Management Agency has prepared a brochure on the topic of evacuation in an emergency.  The following information is contained within the brochure.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1.  Are there still bomb or fallout shelters?

No, although you may still see the original Civil Defense placard on a number of buildings, these shelters are no longer accessible.  In many cases the space has been utilized for other needs, such as building storage, etc.  Sometimes the entire building has changed usage or ownership, making a shelter impractical.

2.  Does the City have an "Evacuation Plan"?

Yes, as a component of the City's Emergency Operations Plan, there is a description of  when and when not to evacuate buildings.  The idea of any evacuation is one that must take a number of factors into consideration:

• Are the residents, or workers, in the building safer inside as in the event of a chemical incident outside? 
• Is the weather a factor such as during a tornado or similar event where the building itself affords greater protection.
• Will the rapid egress of hundreds or thousands of people in itself injure as many or more than the threat. 
• Will the outflow of people obstruct the movement of emergency apparatus through the streets?

If at home, we recommend you reference any number of pamphlets produced by the American Red Cross or Salvation Army concerning what to take with you. This may include medications, telephone lists, some cash, etc.

 3.  When is an evacuation usually implemented?

An evacuation may be called for when there is a specific threat against a certain building, facility or area.  Even then additional factors  such as the time from notification to occurrence and type of structure may be considered.

If you are instructed to evacuate a building by a responsible party, either in person or via a public address system, proceed to the stairs and egress the building via the stairways, unless specifically told otherwise.  Relocate yourself to a safe spot and remain there.

 4.  What else can I do to help?

• Become familiar with the stairways, emergency equipment, and various exits for your building. 
• Be alert if you are responsible for receiving packages, greeting visitors and with other contacts with the general public.
• Have a battery-powered portable radio and flashlight handy.

AS YOU CAN SEE EVACUATION IS DIFFICULT TO ACCOMPLISH AND HAS QUESTIONABLE PROTECTIVE VALUE.

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