Hazardous Material Spills

The City has a comprehensive plan for how it and its partners will respond to hazardous material spills. See the Dangerous Goods Spill Response Plan for more information.

Depending on the nature of the hazardous material spill, first responders may call for the evacuation of an area or instruct residents and businesses to stay put where they are currently located ("shelter-in-place.") Unlike widespread events such as earthquakes, you may be the first to notice a hazardous material spill. If you believe that may be the case, perform the following actions:

• If you are not already, get to a safe place. Preferably one that is up-wind from the event. Be aware that hazardous material can possibly be flammable, explosive, and dangerous to inhale. Stay far away from any spill.
• Once you are sure you are, and will remain, safe, contact 9-1-1.

Visit PreparedBC for more information on getting prepared for a hazardous material spill. In the event of a significant hazardous material spill, residents may be asked to evacuate an area or shelter in place.

Evacuation
If you receive instructions to evacuate:

1. Stay calm.
2. If you require assistance evacuating (such as physical support) contact your support network. If you are unable to find assistance, contact first responders immediately.
3. Gather your family; a neighbour or someone who may need help.
4. When you leave, take your emergency grab-and-go bag with you
5. Take essential items that are available only if there is time. These could include things such as diapers, baby food, clothes, critical medications and money.
6. If possible, turn off appliances such as stove, lights, air conditioning and heaters.
7. Do not use more cars than you absolutely have to (streets will be filled with other evacuating residents).
8. Keep the windows and vents in the car closed.
9. Follow the routes specified by officials. Don’t take shortcuts. They could lead you to a blocked or dangerous area.
10. Avoid fast moving water or water with an unknown depth. If your car gets stuck in water evacuate the car as quickly as possible – if you are able to safely do so. Do not stay with the car as conditions can rapidly change and you may not be able to get out later.
11. Do not use the telephone unless you need immediate emergency service.
12. Register with the designated reception centre so that you can reunite with family and loved ones. (Information on location would soon be on the news and City social media channels)
13. Follow the contacts listed in the Emergency Telephone Numbers and Information Sources section to remain connected and receive up-to-date information.

Shelter-in-Place (Stay Inside)
If you receive instructions to shelter in place:

1. Move indoors as quickly as possible.
2. Close all openings. Use duct tape foil or plastic wrap to seal leaks in openings.
3. Turn off all heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Close vents.
4. Do not use fireplaces. Close all dampers.
5. Do not operate the clothes dryer. If possible disconnect and seal the dryer hose.
6. Close drapes, curtains and shades. Stay away from external windows.
7. Stay in an inside room away from windows and doors if possible.
8. Use telephones only if you need immediate emergency service.
9. Avoid smoking as it contaminates the air.
10. Do not leave the building until told it is safe to do so.
11. Follow the contacts listed in the Emergency Telephone Numbers and Information Sources section to remain connected and receive up-to-date information.
12. Turn on the radio or television for information on the news.