Chemical Emergencies
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 basic facts about certain chemicals and actions you can take to protect your health.
Chemicals grouped into categories based on similarities in how they affect health or the environment.
Learn more about chemical agents on the Emergency Preparedness and Response website, including links to case definitions for chemical poisoning.
General Public
- American Association of Poison Control Centers
- ATSDR ToxFAQs
- National Pesticide Information Center
- Preparation and Planning for Chemical Emergencies
- Questions and Answers about Breastfeeding in a Chemical Emergency
Medical Professionals
- ATSDR Medical Management Guides (MMGs)
- Chemical Case Definitions
- Questions and Answers about Breastfeeding in a Chemical Emergency
- Triage Guidelines – CHEMM
First Responders
- BARDA Decontamination Guidance for Chemical Incidents
- Chemical Emergency Information for First Responders
- Information for the First Responders – CHEMM
- NIOSH Emergency Response Safety and Health Database
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – CHEMM
- Triage Guidelines – CHEMM
- U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board
Laboratorians
Public Health Professionals
- ATSDR Assessment of Chemical Exposures Program
- ATSDR Emergency Response Program
- ATSDR National Toxic Substances Incidents Program
- ATSDR ToxFAQs
- BARDA Decontamination Guidance for Chemical Incidents
- CHEMM – Chemical Hazards Emergency Management
- NIOSH Emergency Response Safety and Health Database
- Surveillance for Chemical Emergencies
- Triage Guidelines – CHEMM