Hazardous Materials Fact Sheet

Hazardous materials (Hazmat) are common in our environment. Business and industry, governmental entities, and even private citizens use chemicals on a daily basis. Hazardous materials can be found everywhere to include even your own kitchen, garage, and medicine cabinet.

Exposure to these chemicals can occur in various ways. Some examples include:

• Breathing in the chemical.
• Swallowing contaminated food, water, or medication
• Touching the chemical or coming into contact with contaminated items.

Remember, you may be exposed to chemicals even though you may not be able to see or smell anything unusual. If you believe you have been exposed, seek medical attention immediately.

HOW YOU MAY BE NOTIFIED OF A MAJOR HAZMAT EMERGENCY

In the event of a major Hazmat emergency, you will be notified by the authorities or facility involved. To get you attention, an outdoor siren might sound, you may be called by telephone, or emergency personnel may drive by and give instruction over a loudspeaker.

Listen carefully to local radio or television for instructions and strictly follow their guidelines.

You will be given to following:

• The area affected
• The type of health hazard
• Method to protect yourself
• Evacuation routes (if necessary)
• Sheltering locations (if necessary)
• Phone numbers to call for additional information.
  

DO NOT call 911 for additional information. Call the numbers given by the radio or television broadcast.