While chemical disasters aren’t a frequent concern for most people, for those living in close proximity to processing sites or factories where accidents are possible, they can pose a significant risk. And when these accidents occur, their nature can often make things like evacuation a challenge, instead forcing residents to shelter in place, as even going outside can be dangerous due to the chemicals in the air. As a result, it is critical that people both listen to their local emergency officials, and keep their emergency preparedness kits up to date, according to an article in North Jersey.
Says Captain Matthew Tiedemann, coordinator for the Bergen County Office of Emergency Management of the proper response to a chemical disaster, “If the public is told to shelter in place, it is critical to do so. If the public is advised to evacuate, please evacuate immediately. This cooperation protects the public and allows emergency response professionals to do their jobs in the most effective manner possible.”
For a local emergency preparedness kit, Tiedemann recommends including such items as a battery-operated radio and charger for cell phones, non-perishable food items, a first aid kit, and duct tape.
The New Jersey Emergency Management Office recommends a couple additional items and actions, including picking a shelter-in-place room, and preparing pre-cut plastic sheeting which you can use to cover windows, doors, and vents, rather than waiting until a disaster has already occurred to do the cutting.
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