A restriction may remain in place precisely because authorities have not yet completed their assessment.
- What Should Residents Do During a Safety Warning?
The correct response depends on the instructions given by police and other emergency services.
If authorities tell people to avoid an area, choose another route and stay away until they announce that access is permitted again.
If you live or work nearby, monitor official updates for information about road closures, building access, and any instructions affecting local residents.
If emergency services issue a shelter-in-place instruction, remain indoors and follow their directions. If they order an evacuation, leave by the recommended route when it is safe to do so.
Avoid approaching the scene to take photographs or videos. Crowding around an emergency can obstruct ambulances, fire crews, and police vehicles. It can also expose bystanders to hazards they do not understand.
If you encounter an officer or emergency worker, follow their instructions rather than arguing about whether the restriction is necessary.