Chemical Emergencies

In a Chemical Emergency:
A hazmat team in yellow full-body protective gear discusses a chemical disaster.

In a chemical emergency, if you come in contact with a known or unknown chemical, you should get away from the area, get it off your body as soon as you can, and get help by calling the Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222 or calling 911 or going to the nearest hospital. Since chemical emergencies can happen at any time, plan ahead so you are ready to evacuate or stay put and seal off your space.

Learn About Chemicals
A close-up photo of a young Black child, age 3 or 4, holding the hand of an adult and looking up at them.

Learn basic facts about certain chemicals and actions you can take to protect your health.

Different barrels with toxic waste on white background 3D rendering

Chemicals grouped into categories based on similarities in how they affect health or the environment.

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Learn more about chemical agents on the Emergency Preparedness and Response website, including links to case definitions for chemical poisoning.