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Hazardous Materials
Information A hazardous materials accident can occur anywhere. We have
several companies which handle extremely hazardous chemicals. While these
chemicals are hazardous, they are likely to be handled in a safe manner.
However, hazardous materials are transported on our roadways and railways daily, so any area is considered vulnerable to an accident.
Preparing for a Hazmat
Release
Learn to detect the presence of a hazardous material. Many
hazardous materials do not have a taste or an odor. Some materials can be
detected because they cause physical reactions such as watering eyes or
nausea. Some hazardous materials exist beneath the surface of the ground and
can be recognized by an oil or foam-like appearance. Contact your Local
Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) or local emergency management office for
information about hazardous materials and community response plans. Find
out evacuation plans for your workplace and your children's schools. Be
ready to evacuate. Plan several evacuation routes out of the area. Ask about
industry and community warning systems.
Family Disaster Supplies
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Flashlight and extra
batteries |
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Portable, battery-operated
radio and extra batteries |
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First aid kit and manual |
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Emergency food and water |
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Non-electric can opener |
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Essential medicines |
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Cash and credit cards |
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Sturdy Shoes |
Family Emergency
Communications Plan
In case family members are separated from one another
during a hazardous materials accident (this is a real possibility during the
day when adults are at work and children are at school), develop a plan for
reuniting after the disaster. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to
serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call
long distance. Make sure everyone knows the name, address and phone number
of the contact person.
During a Hazmat Release
If you hear a siren or other warning signal, turn on a
radio or television for further emergency information.
If Caught at the Scene of
an Accident
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If you see an accident,
call 9-1-1 or the local fire department to report the nature and
location of the accident as soon as possible. |
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Move away from the accident
scene and help keep others away. |
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Do not walk into or touch
any of the spilled substance. |
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Try not to inhale gases,
fumes and smoke. If possible, cover mouth with a cloth while leaving the
area. |
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Stay away from accident
victims until the hazardous material has been identified. |
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Try to stay upstream,
uphill and upwind of the accident. |
If asked to Stay Indoors
("Shelter-In-Place")
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Seal house so
contaminants cannot enter. |
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Close and lock
windows and doors. |
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Seal gaps under
doorways and windows with wet towels and duct tape. |
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Seal gaps
around window and a/c units, exhaust fans, and vents. |
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Close fireplace
dampers. |
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Close off
nonessential rooms such as storage areas, laundry rooms and extra
bedrooms. |
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Turn off
ventilation systems. |
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DO NOT go
outdoors until the area has been cleared by emergency officials. |
Immediately after the "in-place sheltering" announcement
is issued, fill up bathtubs or large containers for an additional water
supply and turn off the intake valve to the house. If gas or vapors could
have entered the building, take shallow breaths through a cloth or a towel.
Avoid eating or drinking any food or water that may be contaminated.
Monitor the Emergency Broadcast System station for further updates and
remain in shelter until authorities indicate it is safe to come out.
Assisting Accident
Victims
Don't try to care for victims of a hazardous materials
accident until the substance has been identified and authorities indicate it
is safe to go near victims. Then you can move victims to fresh air and call
for emergency medical care. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes and place
them in a plastic bag. Cleanse victims that have come in contact with
chemicals by immediately pouring cold water over the skin or eyes for at
least 15 minutes, unless authorities instruct you not to use water on the
particular chemical involved.
If Asked to Evacuate
Authorities will decide if evacuation is necessary based
primarily on the type and amount of chemical released and how long it is
expected to affect an area. Other considerations are the length of time it
should take to evacuate the area, weather conditions, and the time of day.
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Stay tuned to a radio or
television for information on evacuation routes, temporary shelters, and
procedures. |
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Follow the routes
recommended by the authorities--shortcuts may not be safe. |
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Leave at once. |
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If you have time, minimize
contamination in the house by closing all windows, shutting all vents,
and turning off attic fans. |
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Take pre-assembled disaster
supplies. Remember to help your neighbors who may require special
assistance--infants, elderly people and people with disabilities. |
Post Hazmat Release
Activities
Authorities will
decide if evacuation is necessary based primarily on the type and amount of
chemical released and how long it is expected to affect an area. Other
considerations are the length of time it should take to evacuate the area,
weather conditions, and the time of day.
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