NEBRASKA HAZARDS

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS PREPAREDNESS

Hazardous Materials Incidents

Hazardous materials include explosives, flammable substances, poisons, and radioactive materials. Emergencies can occur during production, storage, transportation, use, or disposal. You may be at risk when chemicals are used improperly or released in harmful amounts.

Before an Incident

  • Build an emergency supply kit that includes plastic sheeting and duct tape.
  • Make a family emergency plan.
  • Know how to operate your home's ventilation system.
  • Identify an above-ground shelter room with as few openings as possible.
  • Learn about sheltering in place.
  • Contact your local emergency management office for information about your community's Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC).

During an Incident

Listen to local radio or television for instructions. Remember that some toxic chemicals are odorless.

If You Are Asked to Evacuate:

  • Evacuate immediately and follow designated routes.
  • Stay tuned for information about shelters and procedures.
  • If time permits, close windows and vents and turn off attic fans.
  • Take your emergency supplies.
  • Help neighbors who may need special assistance.

If You Are Outside:

  • Move upstream, uphill, and upwind. If possible, get at least one-half mile (8–10 city blocks) away from the danger area.
  • Do not touch spilled liquids, airborne mists, or chemical deposits.
  • Avoid breathing gases, fumes, and smoke. Cover your mouth with a cloth or mask if possible.
  • Stay away from accident victims until the hazardous material has been identified.

If You Are in a Vehicle:

  • Stop and seek shelter in a permanent building.
  • If you must remain in your vehicle, close the windows and vents and turn off the air conditioner and heater.

If You Are Told to Shelter Indoors:

  • Bring pets inside.
  • Close and lock exterior doors and windows.
  • Close vents, fireplace dampers, and interior doors.
  • Turn off air conditioning and ventilation systems, or use 100% recirculation.
  • Go to your designated shelter room.
  • Seal gaps around windows, doors, vents, and exhaust fans with wet towels, plastic sheeting, or duct tape.
  • Avoid food or water that may be contaminated.
  • Listen to local radio or television for updates.

If authorities direct you to a public shelter, or you feel unsafe remaining at home, evacuate as instructed. Text SHELTER plus your ZIP code to 43362 to find a nearby shelter (example: SHELTER 12345).

If You Have Been Exposed:

  • Follow decontamination instructions from local authorities.
  • Seek medical attention for unusual symptoms.
  • Place exposed clothing and shoes in sealed containers.
  • Tell others who may come into contact with you that you may have been exposed.
  • Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
  • Follow local instructions for cleaning your home and property.
  • Report lingering vapors or other hazards to local emergency services.