A sudden toxic gas leak is an emergency that leaves no room for panic. Mastering the correct evacuation and self-rescue methods is crucial to protecting life. Below is a comprehensive emergency guide organized by scenario. Be sure to save it for future reference!
I. Five-Step Emergency Evacuation Method for the General Public
01 Evacuate Upwind, Move Faster Than Panic
Upon noticing an unusual odor or feeling unwell, immediately determine the wind direction and decisively evacuate quickly along a crosswind or upwind direction (the direction from which the wind is blowing). Stay calm during evacuation. Do not use elevators. Prioritize orderly evacuation through designated safe passages like fire escapes and stairwells. If your route is blocked or you are unsure of the direction, immediately take shelter in a high place or an open area. Do not linger in place.
02 Use Protective Gear to Minimize Inhalation
If conditions permit, immediately put on a gas mask or respirator to minimize the inhalation of toxic gases. If professional equipment is unavailable, cover your mouth and nose tightly with a wet towel or wet cloth while evacuating. However, do not make it overly wet, as this can cause breathing difficulties and lead to secondary harm.
03 Avoid Low-Lying Areas, Steer Clear of Danger
Most toxic gases are heavier than air and, after a leak, will accumulate in low-lying areas like water. Therefore, never stay in basements, ditches, corners, or other low-lying areas during evacuation. You must move to higher ground with a wide, open view and good air circulation.
04 Report the Incident Promptly, Seek Help Precisely
After escaping to a safe area, immediately dial 110 and 120. When reporting, clearly state: the exact location of the leak, the type of gas (if known), the scope of the leak, and your condition. If you see others injured or poisoned, assist in contacting emergency services and wait for professional rescue.
05 Thoroughly Decontaminate and Cooperate with Authorities
Upon reaching a safe zone, immediately remove contaminated clothing and thoroughly rinse any skin, hair, or exposed areas that came into contact with the toxic gas with running water. Then, actively cooperate with relevant authorities in their investigation, providing necessary information such as details of the incident to assist with subsequent response efforts.
II. Emergency Response Points for Drivers and Passengers in Passing Vehicles
01 Maintain Distance, Proceed with Caution
During normal driving, maintain a safe distance of at least 50 meters from vehicles transporting chemicals to avoid the risk of collision from following too closely.
02 Stop, Take Shelter, Evacuate Everyone
In case of a sudden incident such as a vehicle accident or a leak, stop the vehicle smoothly and immediately activate the hazard warning lights. All occupants should quickly exit the vehicle and evacuate to a safe area upwind, strictly following the upwind evacuation principle outlined in the “Five-Step Evacuation Method for the General Public.”
03 Prohibit Open Flames and Electrical Devices, Avoid Ignition Sources
Throughout the entire evacuation process, strictly forbid the use of open flames, lighters, mobile phone calls, electrical switches, or any other equipment that might create sparks, to prevent secondary disasters such as explosions or fires.
04 Obey Commands, Evacuate in an Orderly Manner
If firefighters or medical personnel are on-site providing guidance, strictly follow their commands and evacuate in an orderly fashion along designated routes and to specified areas. Do not act on your own or blindly gather to watch.
If you discover a leak of toxic or hazardous gases, never stop to watch, never attempt a reckless rescue, and never rely on wishful thinking. Life comes first, and emergency preparedness is paramount. Mastering these emergency procedures can provide an extra chance of survival for yourself and others in a critical moment!
