If you are involved in or become aware of a hazardous material release in your building or area, take the following actions:

1. Remain calm.
2. Call Campus Police at 540-568-6911.
3. If the material release is outside of the building, remain inside.
4. Evacuate the immediate area.
5. If necessary, initiate EVACUATION PROCEDURES. Remain upwind of the building.

In a chemical emergency, a hazardous amount of a chemical is spilled or released into the environment. If a chemical emergency occurs, officials will warn you via text, voice mail messages, or blast e-mail, or they may come to your door. If you witness or smell a chemical spill, or if there is a life-threatening emergency, Dial 540-568-6911.

During a chemical emergency

• Remain Calm
• If the material release is outside of the building, remain inside.
• If you are in the area or building of the chemical emergency; Evacuate the area Immediately.
• When officials say it is safe, open all doors and windows and turn on the air conditioning and ventilation systems to flush out any chemicals.
• Remember: a person or thing that has been exposed to a hazardous chemical might be contaminated and could contaminate others. Follow decontamination instructions from local officials.
• If you are outside during an incident, stay upstream, uphill and upwind. Gases and mists are generally heavier than air and hazardous materials can quickly be transported by water and wind. In general, try to go at least one-half mile (10 city blocks) from the danger area. However, for many incidents, you will need to go much farther.
• If you are in a motor vehicle, stop and find shelter in a permanent building if possible. If you must remain in your vehicle, keep the windows and vents closed and shut off the air conditioner and heater.
• Listen to JMU Alerts, local TV or radio for instructions on whether to evacuate or stay where you are.  Your life could depend on it.
• Local officials will tell you:
  • The type of health hazard.
  • The affected area.
  • How to protect yourself.
  • Evacuation routes, if necessary.
  • Shelter locations.
  • Type and location of medical facilities.
  • The phone numbers to call if you need extra help.