Overview
A major chemical or biological emergency can happen when hazardous amounts of toxins are released into the environment. You can be exposed to chemical and biological toxins by:

• Inhaling them
• Swallowing contaminated food, water or medication
• Touching or coming into contact with contaminated items

Many times you cannot see or smell anything unusual. In the event of a chemical or biological emergency, you will be given instructions by authorities. You may be told to shelter in place, to move uphill and upwind of the release, to evacuate or to go to a designated facility. You may also be in the immediate vicinity of an incident and not realize the danger. If you see people vomiting, in convulsions or acting disoriented, leave the area immediately and seek medical attention. If out of doors, check the wind and walk upwind to evacuate the area.