Hazardous materials are chemical substances which, if released or misused, can pose a threat to the environment or health. Chemicals are used in industry, agriculture, medicine, research, and consumer goods. Hazardous materials come in the form of explosives, flammable and combustible substances, poisons and radioactive materials.

While hazardous materials are transported on our roadways, railways and waterways daily, making every area vulnerable to accidents, most victims of chemical accidents are injured at home and generally result from the improper use of flammable or combustible materials. Hazardous materials in various forms can cause death, serious injury, long-lasting health effects, and damage to buildings, homes, and other property.

• Close and lock windows and doors. This will provide a tighter seal and help prevent airborne chemicals from entering your home.
• Turn off ventilation systems. This includes anything that moves or circulates air into, around or out of your home: forced air heat or air conditioning, electrical fans (i.e. stove fans), fireplaces or wood stoves. If your fireplace or wood stove is burning, shut it down as much as possible and close the damper and secure doors and vents.
• Have everyone go into one room. Seal vents, windows and doors with plastic and duct tape. Wet towels and place or tuck them at the bottom of the door to prevent chemicals from entering. Plastic sheeting can be precut and labeled to more easily and quickly seal windows and vents. Doors can be sealed with only the tape. When selecting the room to be used, keep in mind such things as access to water, bathrooms and food.
• Seal gaps around window and air conditioning units, bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, and stove/dryer vents with duct tape and plastic sheeting, wax paper or aluminum wrap.
• Close off non-essential rooms such as storage areas, laundry rooms and extra bedrooms.
• Bring pets inside.
• Immediately after warning, fill bathtubs or large containers for an additional water supply prior to turning off the intake valve into the house.
• 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.
• Check on neighbors, if appropriate, but don’t tie up phone lines.
• If you have school age children, do not go pick them up until instructed to do so. Both you and your children are safer inside.

• Stay tuned to a radio or television for information on evacuation routes, shelter locations and procedures. Follow routes recommended by authorities as shortcuts may not be safe. Leave at once.
• If time permits, minimize contamination by closing all windows, shutting all vents and turning off attic fans.
• Take your pre-assembled Disaster Supplies Kit.
• Help neighbors who may require special assistance – infants, elderly people and people with disabilities.
• Return home only when authorities say it is safe to do so.
• Follow instructions concerning food and water safety.
• Clean up and dispose of residue carefully. Follow instructions provided by local authorities.

Dispose of the following products at recycling centers: