Hazardous materials incident

Chemicals are found everywhere. They purify drinking water, increase crop production, and simplify household chores. But chemicals can also be hazardous to humans or the environment if used or released improperly. Hazards can occur during production, storage, transportation, use or disposal. You are at risk if a chemical is used unsafely or released in harmful amounts into the environment where you live, work or play.

Chemical manufacturers are one source of hazardous materials, but there are many others, including service stations, hospitals, and hazardous materials waste sites.

·         Check with your municipality to find out if reportable quantities of hazardous substances are stored and used in your community.

·         Determine how close you are to major highways, rail lines, pipelines or factories that may produce or transport hazardous materials.

·         Have materials available to seal off your home from airborne contamination.

You may be asked to evacuate or shelter in place if a hazardous spills occurs in your community. Listen for instructions from local emergency response officials.

When a hazardous spill occurs:

·         If you witness (or smell) a hazardous materials accident, call 9-1-1 and report it.

·         Stay away from the incident site to minimize the risk of contamination.

·         If you are outside during an incident:

o        Remember that gases and mists are generally heavier than air. Try to stay upstream, uphill and upwind if possible.

·         If you are in a motor vehicle:

o        Stop and seek shelter in a permanent building if possible.

o        If that is not possible, remain in your vehicle, keep windows and vents closed and shut off the air conditioner and heater.

·         If you are in a building:

o        Remain indoors.

o        Turn on and monitor radio or television for updates and instructions from emergency responders on the incident.

o        Close all windows and doors

o        Shut down air conditions, fans, etc., which bring in outside air.

o        Close fireplace dampers.

o        Close all interior doors so that you can "compartmentalize" your house.

o        These simple measures, plus placing wet towels under the doors will do much to prevent the entry of smoke and/or fumes into your home.

·         Only evacuate if directed to do so by local authorities. In the short term, staying indoors with the house closed up is the most effective action you can take.

·         If you are instructed to evacuate the area, do so immediately. Emergency response personnel would not order an evacuation unless there was good reason to do so.

·         Do not return to the affected area until a proper assessment has been conducted.