© Hamilton County Florida Emergency Management
Hazardous Materials
If there were a chemical emergency near your home, would you know what to do?
The following information will help you be better prepared.
In the event of a chemical emergency that threatens your area, you will be notified of
the incident in at least one of the following ways:
A telephone call through an emergency telephone notification system. You will receive
a recorded message that will give you some instructions on what to do.
A law enforcement officer or fire truck using a public address system to warn you of
the danger and provide instruction of what to do.
A law enforcement officer or firefighter going door- to-door to notify residents of the
danger and provide some instructions on what to do.
Through the Emergency Alert System (EAS) formerly called the Emergency Broadcast
System (EBS).
Depending on the situation, it may be necessary for you to evacuate during a
chemical emergency. In many cases however, you may be requested to “shelter in
place.”
What Is Sheltering In Place?
Many times during a chemical emergency it is safer to stay inside and protect yourself
than it would be to attempt to evacuate. Sheltering in place is simply preparing your
home to keep the chemical from getting inside. This can be done easily and quickly if
you have the proper materials on hand.
When notified of a chemical emergency and instructed to shelter in place,
immediately move inside your home or business. Do not forget your pets! Shut and
lock all doors and windows and turn off any outside ventilation systems such as air
conditioners, heaters and window fans. Take shelter in a previously selected interior
room with as few windows and doors as possible. Use the duct tape, plastic sheeting
and towels from your supply kit to cover and seal any leaky areas around doors and
windows.
If you encounter any problems, make sure you call 911 and then place a wet cloth
over your nose and mouth. Do not attempt to evacuate unless officials tell you to and
monitor local media for the latest updates. When the “all clear” signal is given by one
of the methods described above, ventilate the structure by opening doors and
windows. Stay outside to allow the building to air out.
Sheltering In Place Kit
Bottled water
Bath towels
Duct tape and plastic sheeting
Flashlight and battery powered radio with extra batteries
Non-perishable food items
First aid kit with scissors
