Biological and chemical agents are organisms or toxins. They may cause illness or impairment, but can be difficult to detect or take time to grow and cause problems.

Before an Emergency:

• Determine the possible hazards in the community.  Learn how to deal with them. Learn how the City and County's All Hazards Plan addresses this problem. 
• Be alert and aware of your surrounding area.

During an Emergency:

• Listen to your radio or TV. 
• If you hear a siren, or other pre-arranged notification, turn on your radio or TV. 
• Follow instruction of local officials carefully. Your life, or the lives of your loved ones may depend on it. 
• Do not touch, smell or move an agent if found. Call 911. 
• Move away from the area and help others leave. Stay upwind, uphill, upstream.

If Exposed:

• After leaving the area, remove all clothing, jewelry, and glasses. Seal in a bag. 
• Wash hands, then wash body with soap is available.  (Avoid hard scrub. Blot dry, don't rub.) 
• Minimize exposure 
  Time - move away quickly 
  Distance - move uphill, upwind or upstream 
  Shielding - find shelter. Protective clothing will also reduce exposure.

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