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Chemical Emergencies
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Disasters

Chemical Emergencies

Hazardous chemical releases can occur through industrial accidents, terrorist attacks, or the misuse of common household items, but proactive planning can help mitigate their impact.

Overview

When a hazardous chemical has been released, it may harm people's health. Chemical releases can be unintentional, as in the case of an industrial accident, or planned, as in the case of a terrorist attack with a chemical weapon.

Types of Hazardous Chemicals

Hazardous chemicals originate from various sources:

  • Military agents: Chemicals developed for warfare, such as nerve agents like sarin and VX.
  • Industrial chemicals: Substances used in manufacturing and industry, including chlorine, ammonia, and benzene.
  • Household items: Some hazardous substances can be created using everyday items such as household cleaners.

Preparation and Coping

Although there are no guarantees of safety during a chemical emergency, you can take actions to protect yourself. You should have a disaster plan. Being prepared can help reduce fear, anxiety, and losses. If you do experience a disaster, it is normal to feel stressed, and you may need help in finding ways to cope.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Frequently Asked Questions

Keep them in a well-ventilated area away from the source of the chemical. If possible, move them to a room with a closed door and seal windows. Use a mask or respirator if available. For pets, keep them in a separate, sealed area and monitor for signs of distress such as excessive drooling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. Contact a veterinarian or emergency services for guidance.
basic kit should contain: a respirator mask (N95 or higher), disposable gloves, eye protection, a first‑aid kit with burn ointment, a flashlight, a battery‑powered radio, a whistle, a multi‑purpose tool, a copy of emergency contacts, and a list of household chemicals with safety data sheets. Keep the kit in a readily accessible location and review it annually.
First, evacuate the area immediately and close any doors or windows to limit the spread of fumes. Call emergency services (911) and inform them of the suspected chemical. Do not use electrical switches or open flames, as they can ignite volatile substances. If you have a mask or respirator, wear it while moving to a safe location. Once outside, keep a safe distance and wait for responders to arrive.
Common symptoms include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, eye irritation, skin redness or burns, headache, dizziness, nausea, or confusion. In the case of nerve agents, look for muscle twitching, blurred vision, or difficulty breathing. If any of these occur, seek medical attention immediately and provide details of the suspected chemical.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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