Chemical releases are very rare, but they can happen. So people who live or work near facilities that handle or manufacture chemicals, or who live near chemical transportation routes (rail or highway) should be prepared to take the necessary steps to assure their personal safety.

There is no such thing as a "typical chemical release," so responses to each event will need to be tailored to the circumstances.

Always await instructions from the Emergency Services before evacuating. More information can be obtained from our Hazardous Materials Page, as well as from our Local Emergency Preparedness Committee (LEPC) page.