Hazardous Materials Incidents

A Hazardous Materials (HazMat) incident involves the release of dangerous chemical, biological, radiological, or explosive substances that can pose immediate and long-term threats to public health, property, and the environment. These incidents may occur in industrial accidents, transportation crashes, terrorist attacks, or natural disasters affecting chemical storage facilities.

Hazardous materials can affect air, water, and soil—and may require mass evacuations, sheltering in place, or specialized decontamination.

Common Hazards

  • Biohazards (Medical waste, pathogens)
    Risks: Disease spread, infection
  • Corrosives (Acids, lye, bleach)
    Risks: Burns, respiratory damage
  • Flammable Liquids (Gasoline, ethanol)
    Risks: Fires, explosions, toxic fumes
  • Radioactive Substances (Uranium, medical isotopes)
    Risks: Cancer risk, organ damage
  • Toxics (Pesticides, ammonia, chlorine)
    Risks: Poisoning, lung and skin damage

Preparedness Tips

Know your area

  • Check if you live or work near:
    • Industrial parks or manufacturing plants
    • Freight train lines or major highways
    • Ports, refineries, or waste treatment facilities
  • Request or download your local hazardous material response plan

Create a shelter-in-place room

  • Choose an interior room with no windows or vents
  • Keep plastic sheeting, duct tape, towels, and scissors stored nearby
  • Practice sealing the room during drills

Emergency Kit Additions

  • N95 masks and chemical splash goggles
  • Disposable gloves and heavy-duty trash bags
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio for alerts

During a HazMat Incident

If told to shelter in place:

  • Go to your pre-selected room immediately
  • Seal all windows, doors, and vents using plastic and duct tape
  • Turn off HVAC systems and fans
  • Use a towel or wet cloth to block gaps at the bottom of doors
  • Monitor official alerts and remain in place until an “all clear” is given

If told to evacuate:

  • Follow routes provided by emergency services—do not take shortcuts
  • Bring your go-bag and wear protective clothing
  • Avoid touching surfaces or debris in the area

If exposed:

  • Remove outer clothing and seal in plastic bag
  • Wash skin gently with soap and warm water
  • Rinse eyes for at least 15 minutes if exposed
  • Seek medical help immediately

Health Monitoring

  • Watch for symptoms like coughing, nausea, dizziness, skin burns, or unusual fatigue
  • Contact Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
  • If you suspect long-term exposure, consult with a healthcare provider

Key Resources

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