Disaster Information

Hazardous Materials

In part, modern life is made possible by the carefully controlled use of many different types of hazardous materials. Hazardous materials are chemicals that can become hazardous to people and the environment under certain circumstances.

Everyday, hazardous materials are made, stored, transported and used safely throughout the community. However, there is always the potential for a chemical release to occur, either on the highway or at a fixed location. So it makes good sense for the community to have an emergency plan for chemical releases ... and it makes good sense for you to have a family emergency plan as well.

A helpful video on how to Shelter-in-Place during emergencies is below.

How Will I Know When A Chemical Emergency Occurs?

When a chemical release occurs that has the potential to harmfully effect part of the community, the outdoor siren system is activated. This warning system covers Midland, Midland Township, northern sections of Ingersoll Township, and areas near Midland in Williams and Tittabawassee Townships.

These sirens are your signal to move indoors and seek emergency information and instructions through the following means:

• local radio or television stations

• Charter Cable Channel MGTV-96

• 1-888-TELL-MORE (Note: The sirens are tested on the first Saturday of each month at 12:45 p.m.)

In areas of Midland County where outdoor sirens do not exist, notification is made through local radio and television, and by door-to-door contact from sheriff's deputies, fire department personnel and emergency services volunteers. In some cases, public address systems on emergency response vehicles may be utilized for notification.

Emergency broadcasts on radio and television will describe the type of emergency and remind you of the appropriate action to take.

What Should I Do In Case of A Chemical Emergency

• Shelter-in-place. Studies have shown that even poorly sealed buildings provide protection. If you are outside, gather your family and pets together and go indoors, or get into your automobile. Once inside, close all windows and doors; turn off pilot lights; shut down all ventilation equipment such as heating, ventilating and air conditioning units; and put out fireplace fires and close dampers.

• In planning for an emergency, locate and identify shut-off switches for heating and ventilating equipment. Stay inside unless asked by local authorities to do otherwise. Remain tuned to local radio or television and wait for the "ALL CLEAR" announcement.

• If fumes appear to be entering the building and you feel you are in danger, a wet cloth or towel over your nose and mouth will act as a filter and offer some protection.

• If you are outside and can't possibly get indoors, move cross-wind (so the wind is blowing on the side of your face). This offers the best advantage for getting out of the path of the chemical release and into a safe area.

• Children in school are safer staying in the school building. They will be kept indoors until the emergency has passed. Parents will be informed by listening to local radio.

• Hospitals and nursing homes will be advised to activate their emergency plans.

• The "ALL CLEAR" will be issued via radio and television. When the all clear message is given, move outdoors for 15 to 20 minutes. In addition, open all windows and doors, and start up heating and ventilating systems to aid in removing any contaminated air that may have entered during the emergency.

• Remember, when you are alerted of a chemical emergency, the first step is always to go indoors. If local authorities determine that an evacuation is necessary, they will provide you with instructions via radio and television... but until you receive those instructions stay indoors. Do not go outside or open doors and windows until you are told it is safe to do so.

• Do not call 9-1-1 to get information. 9-1-1 lines must be kept open for citizens to report police, fire or medical emergencies.

• You can call 1-888-TELL-MORE throughout the duration of the emergency to receive updated information.

Shelter-In-Place Video Available