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RESPONDING TO CHEMICAL OR BIOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES

  WHAT TO DO WHILE AT HOME OR WORK

The best defense is education and awareness. The public should be aware of and pay attention to world events as well as state and local information. In the unlikely event that we are attacked with chemical or biological agents, knowledge of these agents and how to respond will greatly reduce panic and fear. Chemical agents are classified as persistent or non-persistent. They are generally liquid, often aerosolized and most have immediate effects or are delayed for a few hours. Biological agents differ in that the effects are delayed, often for days. Many agents are odorless and colorless. Many agents are heavier than air and would tend to stay close to the ground.  Most experts agree that inhalation of chemical or biological agents are the most likely and effective means to incapacitate a human or animal. Protection of breathing airways is therefore the single most important factor in a situation where chemical or biological agents may be present. The only sure way to protect an airway is to put distance between you and the source of the agent. While evacuating, cover your mouth and nose; Move upwind from the source and indoors if possible. If indoors, move to an interior room on a higher floor. Once indoors, prepare to shelter-in-place. How to Shelter-in-Place.  If you are contaminated or suspect to be contaminated, get in a shower, remove clothing and wash yourself thoroughly. Store contaminated clothing in a sealed plastic bag. Practice Basic First Aid.  One of the basic instructions you may be given is to shelter-in-place. This is a precaution aimed to keep you and your family safe while remaining in your home. If you are told to shelter-in-place, go inside, close all windows and vents and turn off all fans, heating or cooling systems. Take family members and pets to a safe room, seal windows and doors, and listen to local radio (or television) stations, or a NOAA Weather Radio for instructions. ÿ While gathering your family, you can provide a minimal amount of breathing protection by covering your mouth and nose with a damp cloth. Many chemicals can cause damage to breathing passages.

  • Immediately after the shelter-in-place announcement is issued, fill up bathtubs or large containers for an additional water supply, and turn off the intake valve to the house. Water supplies may become contaminated. Preserve the water you have available.

  • If gas or vapors could have entered the building, take shallow breaths through a cloth or a towel. Many chemicals can cause damage to breathing passages.

  •  Avoid eating or drinking any food or water that may be contaminated.

  • Injury may occur from eating or drinking toxic chemicals.

  •  Seal house so contaminants cannot enter:

  •  Close and lock all windows and doors in your home.    

  •  Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems.

  • Close the fireplace damper.

  • Seal gaps and cracks under doorways and windows with wet towels and duct tape.

  • Seal gaps around window and air conditioning units, bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, and stove and dryer vents with duct tape and plastic sheeting, wax paper, or aluminum wrap.

  • Close off nonessential rooms such as storage areas, laundry rooms, and extra bedrooms.

  • Turn off ventilation systems.

  • Go to an above ground room (not the basement) with the fewest windows and doors. Some chemicals are heavier than air, and may seep into basements, even if the windows are closed.

  • Take your Disaster Supplies Kit with you. These items may make you more comfortable while you are waiting for further instructions.

  • Stay in the room and listen to your radio or television until you are told all is safe, or you are told to evacuate. Local officials may call for evacuation in specific areas at greatest risk in your community. Following the advice of local authorities is your safest choice.

  • If you are told there is danger of explosion, close the window shades, blinds, or curtains. To avoid injury, stay away from the windows. If windows break due to the explosion, the shades will help prevent glass from shattering into your home.

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