Hazardous Material Spill
Hazardous chemicals are sometimes accidentally released into the environment during manufacturing, storage, transportation, handling, or use. Hazardous materials released in train derailments or industry accidents are always a possibility and must be prepared for.
Before a Hazardous Material Spill
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Add items to your Emergency Kit such as plastic sheeting, duct tape and scissors to the kit in order to be better prepared for a hazardous materials incident.
During a Hazardous Material Spill
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If advised to Shelter-in-Place, you want to seal a room to create a barrier between you and potentially contaminated air outside.
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Bring your family and pets indoors.
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Close all exterior doors, windows, vents, fireplace dampers, and as many interior doors as possible to compartmentalize your home.
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Turn off air conditioners and ventilation systems to prevent outside air from being brought in.
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Take your Emergency Kit and go into your pre-selected shelter room. This room should be above ground and have the fewest openings to the outside.
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Seal the gaps under doorways and windows with pre-cut plastic sheeting and duct tape. If you do not have plastic sheeting pre-cut, use wet towels to seal the gaps.
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Listen to media channels for information and instructions from emergency services. Follow the directions of emergency responders.
If Caught Outdoors
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Stay upstream, uphill, and upwind. In general, try to go at least 8-10 city blocks from the danger area. Move away from the accident scene and help keep others away.
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Stay away from accident victims until the hazardous material has been identified.
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Seek shelter in a nearby building and Shelter-in-Place.
If You Are In a Vehicle
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Move upwind and if possible, seek shelter in a permanent building. If you must remain in your car, keep car windows and vents closed, and shut off the air conditioner and heater.
After a Hazardous Material Spill
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Act quickly if you have come in to contact with or have been exposed to hazardous chemicals. Follow decontamination instructions from local authorities.
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Return home only when authorities say it is safe. Open windows and vents and turn on fans to provide ventilation.