Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Events


Chemical/Radiation Exposure:

If exposed or witnessing an exposure:

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth.
  • Bring household members and pets inside. 
  • Call 911.
  • Turn off heating, air conditioning and fans.
  • Stay as far from the emergency site as possible.
  • Keep your body fully covered. 
  • Avoid eating or drinking anything uncovered.
  • Prepare for possible evacuation.


How to minimize exposure to radiation:

  • Limit the time spent near sources of radiation.  Following an accident, local authorities will monitor any release of radiation, determine the level of protective actions needed, and when the threat has passed.
  • The more heavy dense material between you and the source of radiation, the better.  This is why officials may advise you to remain indoors if an emergency occurs.


Safety, Isolation and Notification (SIN):

  • Safety:  Your safety and the safety of those around you is the primary concern
  • Isolation:  If possible, isolate the area to prevent others from entering
  • Notification:  Notify the authorities

Sheltering In Place
  • Bring household members and pets inside.
  • Close all exterior and interior doors and windows and seal outside openings.
  • Turn off heating, air conditioning, and fans.
  • Keep your body fully covered.
  • Avoid eating or drinking anything uncovered.
  • Prepare for possible evacuation.

Suspicious Packages/Biological Threats
  • Do not shake or empty the contents of any suspicious envelope or package.
  • Place the envelope or package in a plastic bag or some other type of container to prevent leakage of contents. If you do not have an appropriate container, then cover the envelope or package with anything you do have available (e.g., clothing, paper, trash can, etc.) and do not remove this cover.
  • Leave the room and close the door, or section off the area to prevent others from entering.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent spreading any powder to your face.
  • Call 911.
  • List all people in room/area when the letter or package was recognized.  Provide list to law enforcement agencies.