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McHenry County Department of Health
Emergency Response Program
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Working to protect the health and safety of McHenry County Residents
by planning for and responding to public health emergencies
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What is Chemical Terrorism? A chemical terrorism event occurs when a hazardous chemical (gas, liquid or solid) has been intentionally released and the release has the potential for harming people’s health. Please note that much of this information would also be applicable for accidental spills or releases (i.e. industrial accidents). Where do hazardous chemicals come from? Hazardous chemicals can originate from a number of different sources. Some have been developed by military organizations for use in combat (e.g. Sarin, VX and mustard gas). Others are commonly used in the industrial fields (e.g. ammonia, benzene and chlorine). Ordinary household cleaners could also be used to create dangerous chemicals compounds. Finally, some can even be found in nature. How to recognize the signs of a chemical event These clues may indicate that a chemical event has occurred:
Should I stay or should I go? When to evacuate… The local police, emergency coordinators or government officials will let the public know if it is safe to evacuate and leave the area or if they should shelter in place. The authorities will use radio, television and the emergency broadcast system to make important announcements. Stay tuned to radio and/or television broadcasts to know right away if an evacuation order is made for a particular area. Every emergency is different and during any emergency people may have to evacuate or to shelter in place depending on where they live. (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) For More Information, Please Visit:
Terrorism
McHenry County Online ~ MCDH Online  McHenry County Department of Health 2200 N Seminary Ave, Annex A Woodstock, Illinois 60098
Telephone (815) 334-4510
Fax (815) 338-7661
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Chemical Terrorism