Listen to local radio or television stations for detailed information and follow the instructions carefully! You should stay away from the area to minimize the risk of contamination. Remember that some toxic chemicals are odorless.

If asked to evacuate:

• Do so immediately.
• Stay tuned to a radio or television for information on evacuation routes, temporary shelters, and procedures.
• If you have time, minimize contamination in the house by closing all windows, shutting all vents, and turning off attic fans.
• Take pre-assembled disaster supplies.
• Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance–infants, elderly people and people with access and functional needs.

If outside:

• Stay upstream, uphill, and upwind. In general, try to go at least one-half mile (usually 8-10 city blocks) from the danger area.
• Do not walk into or touch any spilled liquids, airborne mists, or condensed solid chemical deposits. Try not to inhale gases, fumes and smoke. If possible, cover mouth with a cloth or mask while leaving the area.
• Stay away from accident victims until the hazardous material has been identified.

If in a car:

• Stop and seek shelter in a permanent building.
• If you must remain in your car, keep car windows and vents closed and shut off the air conditioner and heater.

If asked to stay indoors:

• Bring pets inside.
• Close and lock all exterior doors and windows. Close vents, fireplace dampers, and as many interior doors as possible.
• Turn off air conditioners and ventilation systems, or set ventilation systems to 100 percent recirculation so that no outside air is drawn into the building.
• If gas or vapors could have entered the building, take shallow breaths through a cloth or a towel.
• Avoid eating or drinking any food or water that may be contaminated.
• Go into your pre-selected shelter room.
• Seal gaps under and around the following areas with wet towels, plastic sheeting, duct tape, wax paper or aluminum foil:
  • Doorways and windows
  • Air conditioning units
  • Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans
  • Stove and dryer vents with duct tape and plastic sheeting

• Listen to local radio or television stations for the latest emergency information.
• Act quickly if you have come in to contact with or have been exposed to hazardous chemicals.
• Follow decontamination instructions from local authorities.
• Seek medical treatment for unusual symptoms as soon as possible.
• Place exposed clothing and shoes in tightly sealed containers.
• Advise everyone who comes in to contact with you that you may have been exposed to a toxic substance.
• Return home only when authorities say it is safe. Open windows and vents and turn on fans to provide ventilation.
• Find out from local authorities how to clean up your land and property.
• Report any lingering vapors or other hazards to your local emergency services office.
• Report any lingering vapors or other hazards to 9-1-1.