PRR – Additional Needs – Chemical Emergencies

PREPARE

Hazardous household chemicals include:

  • Cleaning products such as chlorine bleach and ammonia-based cleaners
  • Pesticides, insecticides, and herbicides
  • Automotive products such as antifreeze
  • Batteries, mercury thermometer, lighter fluid, and home heating oil

 

Here are some tips on how to safely store and use hazardous household chemicals:

  • Place products away from open areas where they can be easily knocked down.
  • Store products in closed containers and high cabinets.
  • Install safety locks for child safety, if necessary.
  • Never mix household cleaners. Mixing chlorine bleach and ammonia can be potentially deadly.
  • Do not place chemical products in food containers or near food and medications.
  • Keep products in their original packaging.
  • Do not smoke or be near open flames while using household chemicals.

 

Be ready whenever.

  • Know your options in an emergency. Create an emergency contact card to keep on you at all times and become familiar with your cellphone’s emergency call ability.
  • Keep the Poison Control Center phone number on you: 800-222-1222 and post the number of by all telephones in your house.
  • Have a decluttered, open living space to allow for quick evacuation.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help from loved ones! Ask for help on decluttering your living environment, storing chemicals properly, and disposing of chemicals properly. 

RESPOND

What to do in a chemical emergency:

If you suspect that you’ve been exposed to a hazardous chemical, do not hesitate. Remove yourself from the area as quick as possible, preferably to a well-ventilated area. Take action immediately even if the situation may not seem serious. If it is a life-threatening chemical emergency, call 9-1-1. Otherwise, contact the Poison Control Center for instructions on how to deal with the chemical spill.

  • Clean up spills quickly (within 1-2 minutes) and carefully. Protect your eyes and skin.
  • Remove contaminated clothing immediately and wash the affected area(s) with soap and water.
  • Dispose of contaminated clothing in a sealed plastic bag.

Sources:

https://emergency.cdc.gov/chemical/overview.asp

https://www.thoughtco.com/bleach-and-ammonia-chemical-reaction-609280

https://www.ready.gov/household-chemical-emergencies

https://emergency.cdc.gov/planning/personalcleaningfacts.asp



RECOVER

 

  • Keep yourself and others away from the contaminated area.
  • In serious situations, do not re-enter the contaminated area until authorities state it is safe to do so.
  • If medical personnel are not available, decontaminate yourself before helping others who are affected.
  • Monitor your health following the event. If you feel unwell, do not hesitate to see a medical professional.

Sources:

https://emergency.cdc.gov/chemical/overview.asp

https://www.thoughtco.com/bleach-and-ammonia-chemical-reaction-609280

https://www.ready.gov/household-chemical-emergencies

https://emergency.cdc.gov/planning/personalcleaningfacts.asp