EDUCATE

E = Educate the public about hazards and response       planning

Hazardous Materials

What are Hazardous Materials?

Hazardous materials are substances that, either alone or in combination with other substances, have the potential to threaten human life or damage the environment. These substances are used by industry, business, government, and by private citizens. Hazardous materials are transported daily in bulk through your community by trucks, rail, pipeline and waterways. They may be flammable substances such as gasoline, natural gas, or other petroleum products. They may be chemicals used in industry which are capable of producing toxic fumes. Great care is taken in the packaging and transportation of these materials, but the possibility of an accident involving a hazardous material cannot be completely eliminated.

THE KEY TO SAFETY IS KNOWING WHAT TO DO AND WHAT TO AVOID

If a hazardous materials spill or accident occurs, the release of these substances can result in a situation which is dangerous or even lethal to the population in the area of the accident.

If such an emergency occurs, you will be warned by the news media and by the local authorities. Use your local radio and television stations to gain important information. Follow the directions given by your local radio and TV stations during the emergency. These stations, are part of the Emergency alert System (EAS), work closely with local authorities to broadcast information you will need to know.

The Mobile County Local Emergency Planning Committee and the Mobile County Emergency Management Agency have prepared the guidelines represented by the below links, to help you reduce the danger to yourself and your household in the event of a hazardous materials release.

Keep this information handy and discuss it with your entire household so that everyone knows what to do in a emergency situation.

Emergency Actions

If a hazardous materials emergency occurs in you area, you might be asked to take one of three actions: PROTECT YOUR BREATHING, SHELTER IN PLACE, OR EVACUATE. If you have neighbors who are hard of hearing, do not see well, or need additional assistance, please help them understand these actions.

1. IF YOU ARE TOLD TO PROTECT YOUR BREATHING:
• Cover your nose and mouth with a damp handkerchief or if possible a large wet bath towel or cloth.

2. IF YOU ARE TOLD TO SHELTER IN PLACE:
• Go inside and stay there until your radio or TV stations report that you may leave.
• Close all doors and windows. Use masking tape or damp towels to seal the openings if possible.
• Turn OFF heating, cooling, ventilation systems.
• Do not use fireplaces. Put out the fire. Close the dampers.
• Do NOT go to school to pick up your children. They will be safe with school officials who are prepared to take special care of them. Going to the school will only cause traffic problems and hamper any emergency action school officials need to take.
• Listen to local radio or TV stations for further instructions.

3. IF YOU ARE TOLD TO EVACUATE:
• Move to the place designated by public authorities.
• Stay as calm as possible.
• Gather essential items you and your family will need, such as extra clothing, eyeglasses, prescription drugs, a first aid kit, baby and childrens' supplies sufficient for at least three days, a portable radio and flashlight, checkbook, credit cards, drivers license and other identification.
• Leave your refrigerator and freezer ON, but turn OFF other household appliances and the lights.
• Secure your home before you leave, and then do not worry about your property while you go away!
• Keep your car vents and windows closed. Do not use the heater or air conditioner. Drive carefully! Be patient with your neighbors and fellow drivers.
• If you need a ride, bo with a friend, relative or neighbor. Ask law enforcement officials for transportation if nothing else is available. They will assist you.
• If your children have to leave their schools, you will be told by the radio and TV stations where to pick up your children when it is safe.

Other Important Information

Report briefly what you have seen and let authorities handle the situation from there. DO NOT APPROACH A HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY SCENE! You may endanger your life and the lives of others.

For further information contact the Mobile County Emergency Management Agency at 251-460-8000 or call your local fire or police departments on their non-emergency numbers.

The City of Mobile Fire and Rescue Department is equipped with a Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) unit, for response to hazardous material conditions throughout the county.