Chemical Emergency
What causes a chemical emergency?
- Household chemical accidents are the most common and preventable source
- Underground, manufacturing, or transportation accidents can release hazardous materials
How could I be exposed to a dangerous chemical?
- Breathing it in
- Swallowing contaminated food, water or medication
- Physical contact
How will I know if an environmental hazard is present?
Chemicals can be colorless and odorless. In an emergency you may be notified by siren, loudspeaker, telephone or personal visit. TV and radio emergency alert stations (EAS) will provide instructions including:
- Type of health hazard
- Area affected
- How to protect yourself
- Evacuation routes, if necessary
- Shelter locations (or shelter-in-place)
- Type and location of medical facilities
- Phone numbers to call for extra help
- Only call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies. Do not call for information
Instructions should be strictly followed. Your life could depend on it.
What are the symptoms of chemical poisoning?
- Difficult breathing
- Changes in skin color
- Headache or blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Irritated eyes, skin, throat
- Unusual behavior
- Clumsiness or lack of coordination
- Stomach cramps or diarrhea
Tips:
If you see or smell something dangerous:
Leave the area immediately to avoid exposure. Then call for help.
To avoid chemical emergencies at home:
- Keep all medicines, cosmetics, cleaning products, and household chemicals out of sight and reach of children. In case of ingestion, call:
- Poison Control ( 1-800-222-1222)
- Emergency Medical Services (9-1-1)
- 9-1-1
- Do not give anything, food, liquid or medication by mouth until advised by professionals
- Store chemicals properly, tightly sealed, and in a well ventilated area
- Do not mix chemicals
- Use gloves and avoid eye / skin contact as instructed on packaging
- Never smoke, or use around an open flame
- If spilled clean immediately
- Dispose in environmentally sensitive manner
