Hazardous Materials Incident
Hazardous materials can be a health risk if they're inhaled, ingested or come into contact with skin depending on the type of material.
In all cases consider the following:
- Time: minimize exposure to a hazardous substance
- Distance: remain as far away as possible
- Shielding: protect yourself from the substance
Enclosed affected areas
If you're in an enclosed affected area:
- Immediately contact emergency services
- Leave the area if possible, unless advised otherwise
- Cover exposed skin and protect your airways, such as using a damp cloth, and minimize contact with the substance
- Turn off or move away from air conditioning or heating vents
- If you experience symptoms of exposure to hazardous substances, such as dizziness, perspiration, vomiting, change in breathing, heart rate or skin tone, seek immediate medical attention
- You're reminded to ensure your own safety as the danger may still be present without any visible or odor signs
Open affected areas
If you're in an open affected area:
- Follow the same steps for an enclosed area
- Move away from the release site as quickly as possible
Vehicles
If you're in a vehicle:
- Keep vehicle vents and windows closed
- Don't use vehicle heating or air conditioning
- Monitor radio and online media, and follow instructions from emergency officials
- Drive away from the site if possible