Hazardous materials (hazmat) incidents involve the release of chemicals, biological agents, or radioactive materials that pose health risks. These incidents can result from industrial accidents, transportation crashes, pipeline ruptures, or intentional releases. The appropriate response depends on the material involved, distance from the release, and official guidance.
Unlike many emergencies where you can assess danger visually, hazmat threats may be invisible. Following official instructions is critical because authorities have information about the specific hazard that you cannot determine on your own.
Recognizing Hazmat Incidents
Visible indicators: Unusual colored clouds or mists, leaking containers or tanker trucks, dead vegetation or animals, unusual odors (though many hazardous materials are odorless).
Physical symptoms: Eye, nose, or throat irritation; difficulty breathing; dizziness; nausea; skin irritation. These may indicate exposure.
Emergency notifications: Sirens, emergency alerts, or direct notification from authorities indicate official recognition of hazmat incident.
When in doubt, treat suspicious situations seriously. If something seems wrong (unusual smells, substances, or symptoms), move away and report to authorities.
Shelter in Place
For many hazmat incidents, sheltering in place provides better protection than evacuation, especially if going outside means passing through contaminated areas.
Go inside immediately when instructed to shelter in place. Bring pets inside.
Close and seal: Close all windows and doors. Turn off fans, air conditioning, and heating systems that draw outside air. Seal gaps with wet towels or plastic and tape.
Move to interior room on an upper floor (many chemicals are heavier than air and settle low). Bring supplies: water, radio, phone.
Monitor information: Listen to emergency broadcasts for updates. Do not leave until authorities indicate it is safe.
If you smell gas or chemicals indoors, leave immediately and move crosswind from the suspected source.
Evacuation
If evacuation is ordered, leave immediately following official routes.
Move crosswind: If you can see or smell a release, move perpendicular to the wind direction. This gets you out of the contamination path faster than moving directly away.
Do not drive through visible clouds or areas with strong chemical odors.
Close vehicle vents: Turn off air conditioning and close windows. Set ventilation to recirculate.
Follow designated routes. Authorities choose routes to avoid contaminated areas.
If Exposed
Remove contaminated clothing as quickly as possible. Cut off rather than pulling over head if possible.
Wash thoroughly: Rinse with large amounts of water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Soap and water for skin. Plain water for eyes (hold open and rinse).
Do not scrub which can drive chemicals into skin. Gentle washing is more effective.
Seek medical attention for any exposure symptoms. Inform medical personnel what you may have been exposed to.
Bag contaminated items for proper disposal. Do not put them with regular laundry.
Preparation
Know your area: Industrial facilities, major transportation routes, and pipelines nearby indicate potential hazmat sources.
Shelter supplies: Plastic sheeting, duct tape, and wet towels for sealing. Radio and phone for information.
Go-bag: Ready evacuation supplies if ordered to leave.
Alert systems: Know how your community notifies residents of hazmat incidents.
Hazmat Preparedness Checklist
- Know hazmat sources near your home
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape on hand
- Know how to turn off HVAC system
- Interior room identified for sheltering
- Emergency radio available
- Evacuation routes known
- Alert notifications enabled
- N95 masks available
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I shelter or evacuate?
Follow official instructions. Generally, shelter in place for short-duration releases or when going outside increases exposure risk. Evacuate when directed or when the hazard is approaching your location.
How long might I shelter in place?
Usually a few hours. Most hazmat clouds disperse relatively quickly. Extended sheltering is unusual.
Will my home protect me?
Yes, significantly. Even a standard home reduces exposure substantially. Sealing provides additional protection.
What if I smell chemicals but have no official warning?
Leave the area, move crosswind, and call 911 to report. Do not assume everything is fine just because there is no official alert.
Can I drive away from a chemical cloud?
If you see a cloud approaching and have a clear route away, driving with closed windows may be appropriate. Do not drive through visible contamination.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general educational information. Hazmat incidents vary significantly. Always follow official instructions from emergency responders who know the specific hazard involved.