What to Do After a Hazardous Material Spill
Mom always told us that you can’t unspill the milk. What’s done is done, but you can still prevent further damage.
- Stay aware and alert. If the hazardous material spill made the local news, stay tuned to the radio or TV for updates.
- Go to the designated shelter location with your emergency kit if you have been asked to evacuate. You can also go to the shelter if you haven’t been asked to evacuate, but you feel unsafe at home.
- Don’t go back to the spill site unless the authorities declare that it is safe to do so.
- Upon returning, open the windows and vents and turn on any fans to ensure proper ventilation.
- If you notice lingering vapors or substances, immediately inform your local authorities.
You can find the nearest public shelter by texting “SHELTER + your ZIP code” to 43362. You can also call 211 to obtain information about shelter locations.
Keep your hazardous chemicals properly stored, keep them out of reach of children and/or dumb adults, keep your emergency contact numbers within easy reach, and always use the right tools to keep yourself safe while using dangerous substances. You don’t need a chemical burn or partial blindness to be cool. You’re cool just the way you are. Stay extra cool by disposing of your questionable waste materials using the recommended methods instead of dumping them in the sewer or into your neighbor’s well. HazMat can’t stop you when you’re this well prepared, so keep on shining.
