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A major chemical emergency is an accident that releases a hazardous amount of a chemical into the environment. Accidents can happen on highways or railroad tracks, underground, and at manufacturing plants. These accidents sometimes result in a fire or explosion, but many times you cannot see or smell anything unusual.
If there is a major chemical emergency near your home or office, you will be notified by the authorities to either evacuate the area or to shelter in place. If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately following the authorities instructions. Take your Family Disaster Supplies Kit with you. If you are told to shelter in place it is important that you know how to do this. This is a precaution aimed to keep you and your family safe while remaining in your home or office. If you are told to shelter in place, take your children and pets indoors immediately.
While gathering your family, you can provide a minimal amount of protection to your breathing by covering your mouth and nose with a damp cloth. Once you are inside your home or office:
By following shelter in place instructions, you will protect yourself and your family. Put these instructions where you can find them; in the event there is a chemical emergency in your area and you are asked to shelter in place.