Santa Rosa County is declaring Jan.18-24 as “Hazardous Materials Awareness Week” with an emphasis on “sheltering-in-place.”

The purpose is to increase resident, business and community awareness of the importance of being prepared and knowing what to do before, during and after a chemical or hazardous materials incident. Residents are urged to learn what steps to take when officials issue a shelter-in-place notice. For more information, visit www.santarosa.fl.gov and scroll down to fact sheet #12 entitled “Your County, Your Government- It Can Happen Here” under “What’s Hot.” Information provided includes a thorough supply list and instructions on how to shelter-in-place at home, at work and in automobiles.  The recent incidents in Santa Rosa County draw attention to the fact that accidents can and will happen anywhere. The train and plane accidents could easily have required sheltering in place had circumstances been different in each situation. If the fire in Milton had occurred in a different location, there could have been chemicals in the smoke plume. It is vital that all citizens know what actions to take when a shelter-in-place is ordered. Once given, it is too late to begin the preparation process. It is important to have a family plan set in place should an incident occur so that necessary steps are taken immediately to ensure the safety of loved ones. Some supplies you may need are duct tape, plastic sheeting, first-aid supplies, extra batteries and pet supplies.  

Learning how to identify the presence of hazardous material as well as other potential hazards around the community should be done during Hazardous Materials Awareness Week. Hazardous materials are usually found in chemical plants, water treatment facilities, and on railways, local roads and highways, possibly creating a need for sheltering in place. Chemicals can be hazardous to humans or the environment if used or released improperly. Chemical hazards can occur during production, storage, transportation, use or disposal in any community.