Chemical Emergencies
In a Chemical Emergency:
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.
Protect Yourself and Your Family
Learn About Chemicals
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.
Overview of chemicals in alphabetical order, including links to case definitions for chemical poisoning and other resources about each chemical as available.
- NIOSH Emergency Response Safety and Health Database
- ATSDR Emergency Response Program
- ATSDR Medical Management Guides (MMGs)
- ATSDR National Toxic Substances Incidents Program
- ATSDR Assessment of Chemical Exposures Program
- ATSDR ToxFAQs
- CHEMM – Chemical Hazards Emergency Managementexternal icon
- Triage Guidelines - CHEMMexternal icon
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - CHEMMexternal icon
- BARDA Decontamination Guidance for Chemical Incidentsexternal icon
- Chemical Case Definitions
- National Pesticide Information Centerexternal icon
- U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Boardexternal icon
- American Association of Poison Control Centersexternal icon
- Information for Labs
- Surveillance for Chemical Emergencies
- Chemical Emergency Information for First Responders
- Preparation and Planning for Chemical Emergencies
Page last reviewed: April 4, 2022
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention