Safety Precautions
RESIST RUSHING IN
Approach cautiously from upwind, uphill and/or upstream
- Stay clear of vapor, fumes, smoke, and spills.
- Keep the vehicle at a safe distance from the scene.
Secure the scene
- Isolate the area and protect yourself and others.
Identify the hazards using any of the following
- Placards
- Container labels
- Shipping papers
- Rail Car and Road Trailer Identification Chart
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Knowledge of persons on scene
- The applicable Orange Guide
Assess the situation
- Is there a fire, a spill, or a leak?
- What are the weather conditions?
- What is the terrain like?
- Who / what is at risk: people, property, the environment?
- What actions should be taken — evacuation, shelter-in-place, or dike?
- What resources (human and equipment) are required?
- What can be done immediately?
Obtain help
Advise headquarters to notify responsible agencies and call for assistance from qualified personnel.
Respond
- Enter only when wearing appropriate protective gear.
- Rescue attempts and protecting property must be weighed against you becoming part of the problem.
- Establish a command post and lines of communication.
- Continually reassess the situation and modify response accordingly.
- Consider the safety of people in the immediate area first — including your own safety.
Above all
Do not assume that gases or vapors are harmless because of a lack of smell — odorless gases or vapors may be harmful. Use caution when handling empty containers because they may still present hazards until they are cleaned and purged of all residues.