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Emergency

Chemical or hazardous-substance incident

Official UK advice for a chemical incident: go in, stay in, tune in — and if a substance is on you, Remove, Remove, Remove.

WHAT TO DO NOW

  1. 1If the incident is nearby and you are not contaminated: go into a building (not the one where the release is happening).
  2. 2Close external doors and windows; turn off fans, air conditioning and ventilation that draws in outside air; close vents.
  3. 3Stay inside for the period instructed and tune in to official channels for updates.
  4. 4If a substance is on you — REMOVE, REMOVE, REMOVE: get to fresh air, remove affected outer clothing (avoid pulling over the head), and remove the substance from skin with dry absorbent material.
  5. 5If skin is itchy or painful, or you're told to, rinse continuously with water. Do not eat, drink or smoke while contaminated.
  6. 6Call 999 if there is a threat to life; follow instructions from responders exactly.

What not to do

  • Do not self-evacuate through a contaminated area unless directed.
  • Do not go out to collect family from schools or hospitals while shelter advice is in force.
  • Do not pull off clothing that is stuck to the skin.

What is it?

A chemical or hazardous-substance emergency involves the release of a harmful substance. Some hazardous chemicals cannot be seen, smelled, tasted or felt — follow official instructions even without an obvious sign of contamination.

What might happen?

You may be told to shelter indoors while responders deal with the release. There may be a cordon, decontamination arrangements and a visible emergency-service presence. Advice can change as the substance and affected area are identified.

First 10 minutes

Go inside a safe building, close windows/doors and turn off ventilation. If a substance is on you, begin Remove, Remove, Remove and get to fresh air.

First hour

Stay inside for the instructed period and tune in. Decontaminate yourself before helping others where possible, then assist children or people who need help. Keep contaminated clothing sealed and away from people.

First 24 hours

Remain sheltered until the all-clear. Follow any advice on washing, medical checks and disposing of contaminated items. Cooperate with any decontamination the authorities arrange.

If it continues for several days

Follow the hazard-specific official guidance from UKHSA and responders throughout; the instruction will be lifted when it is safe.

Children

Keep children indoors and calm; help them decontaminate if needed after you have decontaminated yourself.

Older & vulnerable people

Help vulnerable neighbours get indoors and follow instructions; ensure they have medication with them.

Pets

Bring pets indoors; if a pet may be contaminated, keep it separated and follow official advice.

Communications

Battery/wind-up radio and official alerts are your best source. Keep your phone charged and lines free for emergencies.

Official sources

This guidance is an editorial explanation of official UK advice. Always follow instructions from the authorities.

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