Emergency Procedures: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RELEASE

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Emergency Procedures: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RELEASE

EVACUATE

  • Leave the area immediately and move approximately 1/2 mile away (8 to 10 blocks).
  • Keep others away from the affected area.
  • STAY UPSTREAM, UPHILL, and UPWIND OF THE ACCIDENT.
  • Do not walk into or touch any spilled liquids, airborne mists, or condensed solid chemical deposits.
  • Turn off all ignition and heat sources.
  • Try not to inhale gases, fumes, or smoke. Cover mouth with a cloth.

Call SUSCC Police or 911 and tell the dispatcher:

  • Location, type of substance, and amount of the leak or spill
  • Any injuries

Those contaminated by the spill should avoid contact with others and remain in a safe location nearby to receive medical assistance.

Wet Chemicals

  • Flush with water and soap, if possible, being sure not to rub the chemical into your skin.

Dry Chemicals

  • Using gloves, brush away from skin. Remove all contaminated clothing.
  • Once the chemical is removed, flush skin with cool water.

Those with information on the chemical should

  • Leave the immediate area but remain in a safe, nearby location to direct emergency personnel to the affected area.
  • Assist with providing information about the incident, chemical involved, applicable Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and chemical’s common use.
  • Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants, and walkways clear for emergency vehicles.
  • If you are unable to evacuate, or if you are instructed to stay indoors, follow Shelter
  • In Place instructions below.

Shelter in Place (Instructed to Stay Indoors)

  • Close and lock all exterior doors and windows.
  • Close vents and as many interior doors as possible.
  • Turn off air conditioners and ventilation systems.
  • In large buildings, if possible, set ventilation systems to 100 percent recirculation so that no outside air is drawn into the building or turn the system off.
  • Go to a preselected shelter room above ground with fewest openings to the outside.
  • Seal gaps under doorways/windows with wet towels, plastic sheeting and duct tape.
  • If gas or vapors could have entered the building, take shallow breaths through a cloth or towel.
  • Avoid eating or drinking any food or water that may be contaminated.
  • Call SUSCC Police or 911 to report your location.

If in a Vehicle

  • Stop and seek shelter in a safe building
  • If you must remain in car, close windows, air vents, and shut off the air conditioner