Hazardous materials include explosives, flammable and combustible substances, poisons, and radioactive materials. Many products containing hazardous chemicals are routinely used and stored in homes.

These materials can cause death, serious injury, long-lasting health effects, and property damage.

How to Handle a Hazardous Materials Release/Spill

Inside a building:

• Isolate and secure the spill area.
• Warn others in the immediate area.
• Attempt to clean up the spill only if you have been trained and if you have appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Call 911 and give the location and type of material spilled, if assistance is needed.
• Evacuate the building, if appropriate.
• Meet with and assist emergency response personnel.

Outside a building:

• Isolate and secure the spill area.
• Warn others in the immediate area.
• Call 911 and give the location and type of material spilled, if assistance is needed.
• Do not wash spilled material into a storm drain.
• Meet with and assist emergency response personnel.

If someone is injured:

• Assist with emergency eyewash/shower, as needed.
• Provide first aid for all serious injuries.
• Call 911 and give the location and type of material involved.
• Remove and bag contaminated clothing if you can do this without harming the victim. 
• Obtain a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the material involved. An MSDS, developed by a chemical manufacturer or distributor, provides information about the contents, characteristics, physical hazards, and health hazards associated with the chemical.

Sources: KnoWhat2do.com, Texas A&M University