ACTIONS DURING A HAZMAT SPILL

     If you should receive notice of a hazardous materials (HAZMAT) spill, you should take the following actions:

     1. PROTECT YOUR BREATHING: Cover your nose and mouth with a damp handkerchief or if possible, a large wet bath towel or cloth.

      2. SHELTER IN PLACE:

• Go inside. Stay there until your radio, TV station, or local Emergency Management Office advises that you may leave.
• Close all doors and windows. Use masking tape or damp towels to seal any openings if possible.
• Turn OFF heating, cooling and ventilation systems.
• Do not use fireplaces. Put out any fire and close the dampers.

     3. DO’S AND DON’TS DURING A HAZMAT SPILL:

• 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.
• DO listen to your radio or television stations for further instructions.

ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN IF ORDERED TO EVACUATE

EVACUATE IF ORDERED TO DO SO:

• Stay as calm as possible.  Gather items you and your family will need such as:

1. Extra clothing, eyeglasses, prescription drugs, and a first aid kit.

2. Baby and children supplies for at least three days.

3. Portable radio and flashlight.

4. Checkbook, credit cards, drivers license or other identification.

• Turn OFF the lights and your household appliances.  Leave your refrigerator and freezer ON.

• Move to the place (shelter) designated by the local Emergency Management Office.

• When you leave, tie a towel or rag on you front door handle so that law enforcement and rescue personnel will know you are not inside.

• If you need a ride go with a friend, relative or neighbor.  Ask the Emergency Management Office (850 718-0007 or 850 718-0008) for transportation if nothing else is available.

• If you children have to leave their schools, you will be told by the radio and TV stations where to pick them up when it is safe.

• Secure your home before you leave, then do not worry about your property while you are away!

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

     IF YOU SEE AN ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT THAT MAY INVOLVE A HAZARDOUS MATERIAL, PLEASE NOTIFY LOCAL AUTHORITIES BY DIALING "911" IMMEDIATELY.

     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.

Please share the above information with as many people as you can.