In times of major disaster events such as earthquakes, families are often displaced from their homes because the structure is unsafe. Shelters are set up to take in displaced persons during a disaster event. In other disaster events, it may be necessary for residents to remain in their homes or at their business. 

Emergency sheltering guidelines are established by the American Red Cross. The City of Kirkland has a working relationship with the Red Cross in sheltering planning and management. Several Kirkland community members are trained in shelter management.

In the event the City or Red Cross establishes an emergency shelter for disaster victims, information on the location, hours of operations and rules will be made available on this website and distributed via media (TV, newspaper, radio).

Emergency Shelters

The City has identified buildings within Kirkland that could be used as emergency shelters. It is not possible to publicly predesignate these buildings as they may not be deemed safe following a disaster.

General shelter rules:

• Bring identification
• Check in/out required
• Meals provided

Shelter In Place

In the case of a chemical agent attack, the City will instruct the public on how to shelter themselves within their homes or business premises. This is called “shelter in place.” Click here to view a “Shelter in Place” checklist from the State’s Disaster Preparedness Handbook.