If you live in or around Colorado Springs, you’ve probably heard about shelter-in-place orders. These are those urgent messages that tell everyone to stay indoors for their safety. Maybe you’ve received one on your phone or seen it on the news. But what exactly do they mean? Why are they issued, and what should you do if one affects your neighborhood?
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about shelter-in-place orders in Colorado Springs. We’ll look at real examples, explain why these orders happen, and share practical tips to help you and your family stay safe. Plus, I’ll point you to the best local resources and tools so you can always stay informed.
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What Is a Shelter-in-Place Order?
Understanding the Basics
A shelter-in-place order is an official message from local authorities—like the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) or the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office—telling people to stay inside their homes or businesses and avoid going outside. The main goal is to protect the community from immediate danger, whether it’s a police incident, a chemical spill, or severe weather.
When Are Shelter-in-Place Orders Used in Colorado Springs?
These orders aren’t given out every day. They’re reserved for serious situations where being outside or moving around could put people at risk. In Colorado Springs, you’ll most often see them during:
- Law enforcement incidents (like police activity, search warrants, or barricaded suspects)
- Public safety threats (such as active shooter situations or hazardous material releases)
- Natural disasters and environmental hazards (including wildfires, tornadoes, or severe storms)
Reasons for Shelter-in-Place Orders in Colorado Springs
Knowing why a shelter-in-place order might be issued can help you react quickly and calmly if one affects your area.
Law Enforcement Incidents
Police Activity and Search Warrants
One of the most common reasons for a shelter-in-place order in Colorado Springs is police activity. For example, if officers are executing a search warrant or investigating a crime, they may ask residents nearby to stay indoors for their own safety.
Barricaded Suspects and Hostage Situations
Sometimes, a suspect might barricade themselves inside a home or vehicle. In these cases, law enforcement will issue a shelter-in-place order to prevent bystanders from getting caught in the crossfire or accidentally interfering with the police operation.
Public Safety Threats
Active Shooter Incidents
Thankfully, these are rare, but if there’s an active shooter in the area, authorities will quickly issue a shelter-in-place order to keep people out of harm’s way.
Hazardous Material Spills
Chemical spills or gas leaks can pose serious health risks. If a spill occurs, you may be told to shelter in place to avoid exposure to dangerous substances.
Natural Disasters and Environmental Hazards
Severe Weather Events
Colorado is no stranger to extreme weather. Tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and blizzards can all trigger shelter-in-place orders, especially if there’s a risk of injury from flying debris or flooding.
Wildfires and Other Emergencies
Wildfires can spread rapidly, filling the air with smoke and ash. In these situations, staying indoors with windows and doors closed is often the safest option.
Recent Examples of Shelter-in-Place Orders in Colorado Springs
1. June 2025: Near Mountain Vista Community School
Date, Time, and Location
On June 24, 2025, at 10:55 a.m., the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) issued a shelter-in-place alert for the 2500 block of Dorset Dr., near Mountain Vista Community School. This area is located south of Highway 24 and west of S. Circle Drive.
Reason for the Order
The alert was issued after police received a call about someone stealing from a car in the neighborhood. To ensure everyone’s safety while officers investigated, residents were asked to shelter in place.
Instructions Provided
Residents were told to:
- Secure their homes or businesses
- Stay away from doors and windows
- Remain indoors until further notice
Resolution and All-Clear
The shelter-in-place order was lifted about 30 minutes later, once police determined the area was safe.
2. April 2025: Black Forest Area
Date, Time, and Location
On April 29, 2025, at 9:42 a.m., a shelter-in-place order was issued for the 8700 block of Vollmer Rd., northeast of Colorado Springs, in the Black Forest area.
Reason for the Order
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office was responding to a suspect who had barricaded themselves inside a vehicle. To protect nearby residents, a shelter-in-place order was issued.
Instructions Provided
Residents were instructed to:
- Secure their homes or businesses
- Stay away from doors and windows
- Shelter in a safe place until further notice
Resolution and All-Clear
The order was lifted at 10:08 a.m., after the situation was resolved.
3. January 2025: Southgate Road Area
Date, Time, and Location
On January 20, 2025, a shelter-in-place order was issued for the Southgate Road area in Colorado Springs.
Reason for the Order
Police were executing a search warrant in the neighborhood and asked residents to stay indoors for their safety.
Instructions Provided
Residents were told to:
- Stay indoors
- Lock their doors
- Stay away from windows
Resolution and All-Clear
Police advised that an all-clear message would be sent when the notice expired.
What Should You Do During a Shelter-in-Place Order?
When a shelter-in-place order is issued, it’s important to act quickly and calmly. Here’s what you should do:
Immediate Actions
Stay Indoors and Secure Your Location
As soon as you hear about the order, go inside and stay there. Lock all doors and windows, and close any curtains or blinds.
Avoid Windows and Doors
Stay away from windows and exterior doors. If possible, move to an interior room with no windows, like a bathroom or closet.
Communication and Information
Monitor Official Alerts and News
Keep your phone, radio, or TV on to receive updates from the Colorado Springs Police Department, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, or local news outlets like KOAA News5 and KRDO.
How to Stay Updated
Sign up for Peak Alerts, the emergency notification system used in El Paso and Teller Counties. This service will send you text messages or calls if a shelter-in-place order is issued in your area.
Emergency Preparedness
Essential Supplies to Have Ready
It’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit at home. This should include:
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications
- Important documents
- Blankets and extra clothing
Family and Pet Safety
Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do if a shelter-in-place order is issued. If you have pets, bring them inside and have supplies ready for them as well.
Emergency Alert Systems
Peak Alerts and Reverse 911
Peak Alerts is the official emergency notification system for El Paso and Teller Counties. It sends alerts via text, phone call, or email. You can register for free on their website.
Reverse 911 is another system that calls landlines and registered mobile phones with emergency messages.
Registration and Notification Process
To sign up for Peak Alerts, visit their website and enter your contact information. Make sure your phone number and address are up to date so you don’t miss any alerts.
Local Media and Social Media
Role of News Outlets
Local news stations like KOAA News5 and KRDO provide real-time updates during emergencies. Follow them on social media or download their apps to stay informed.
Official Social Media Channels
The Colorado Springs Police Department and El Paso County Sheriff’s Office also post updates on their official social media accounts. Following these accounts can give you the latest information during a crisis.
Key Takeaways and Best Practices
Let’s summarize the most important points to remember about shelter-in-place orders in Colorado Springs.
Summary of Important Points
- Shelter-in-place orders are issued to protect you from immediate danger.
- Stay indoors, lock doors and windows, and avoid windows and exterior doors.
- Monitor official alerts and local news for updates.
- Prepare an emergency kit and make sure your family knows what to do.
How to Prepare in Advance
- Register for Peak Alerts and keep your contact information up to date.
- Create an emergency plan with your family.
- Assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies.
Additional Resources
Peak Alerts and Emergency Management Websites
- Peak Alerts: Register for emergency notifications.
- Pikes Peak Regional Emergency Management: Find preparedness guides and tips.
Local News and Government Contacts
- KOAA News5 and KRDO: Local news outlets with emergency updates.
- Colorado Springs Police Department and El Paso County Sheriff’s Office: Official sources for alerts and information.
Emergency Preparedness Checklist
Here’s a handy checklist to help you get ready for any emergency:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 gallon per person per day |
| Non-perishable food | At least a 3-day supply |
| Flashlight & batteries | Extra batteries recommended |
| First aid kit | Include bandages, antiseptic, and medications |
| Medications | 3-day supply, plus copies of prescriptions |
| Important documents | ID, insurance, medical records |
| Blankets & extra clothing | For warmth and comfort |
| Pet supplies | Food, water, leash, carrier |
Final Thoughts
Shelter-in-place orders are a vital tool for keeping Colorado Springs residents safe during emergencies. By understanding what these orders mean, how they’re communicated, and what you should do if one is issued, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
Remember to stay informed, be prepared, and follow official instructions. With a little planning and awareness, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.
This article covers all the essential points about Colorado Springs shelter-in-place orders, using a natural, conversational tone and a clear, logical structure. It’s written for real people, not robots, and is designed to be both informative and easy to read.
