What to Do in the Event of a Hazardous Material Being Released

A hazardous material is any material (flammable or poisonous) that would be a danger to life or the environment. Hazardous materials (hazmat) releases can cause acute or chronic health effects, damage to property, the environment, serious injury, and even death.

Before
Review your five steps on your Pathways to Preparedness.
During
  • If ordered, evacuate immediately.
  • If ordered to stay indoors, bring pets inside and close exterior doors and windows.
After
  • Seek medical help if you have been exposed to hazardous materials.
  • Follow decontamination instructions from local authorities.
  • Return home when authorities say it is safe.

Quick Facts

  • Brevard County Fire Rescue maintains a Specialized Response Team (SRT) 24-hours a day for hazardous materials incidents.
  • Hazardous materials are transported daily on the state’s highways, railroads, waterways, and pipelines, usually without incident.

Potential Impacts

Fixed-facilities and transportation routes, where hazardous materials can be stored or transported, are often in close proximity to populated areas, significant property development and very valuable environmental resources important to the human and economic well-being of the county.

Historic Events

On January 21, 2011, there was a fatal accident/explosion involving a tanker truck carrying 8,000 gallons of fuel at the State Road 528 overpass at North Courtenay Parkway. The crash caused major damage to bridge spans and support beams. Repairs took several weeks to complete.

Information on Dealing with These Hazards