Chemical Spill

A chemical spill occurs when a toxic gas or liquid is released. They can be unintentional or intentional. Take the following precautions if you suspect a chemical spill has occurred:

• Watch for signs such as people suffering from watery eyes, twitching, choking, or breathing troubles.
• Many sick or dead birds, fish, or small animals may also be a sign of a chemical spill.
• If you are able to determine where the chemical is coming from, quickly move away from that area.
• If the spill occurs in a building, take action to get out of the building without going through the contaminated area.
• If you are unable to leave the building, shelter in place as far away from the suspected impact area as possible.

If you think you have been exposed to a chemical (symptoms may include watering eyes, stinging skin, and trouble breathing), strip immediately and wash with water and soap (if available). Seek immediate medical attention.

Listen to the radio or watch television for further information. Sign up for Alert Montgomery in advance of an emergency to receive updates right to your phone or e-mail.

For more information on chemical spills, visit:

Ready.gov - FEMA's educational preparedness campaign

 
 
The Centers for Disease Control

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency