Managing Director's Office of Emergency Management
Home /  Prepare for Philadelphia Hazards /  Explosion / 
search
 

Explosion

Explosion

Not every explosion has a terrorism connection. Transformers and generators sometimes explode due to age or wear. The following are basic guidelines if you are near an explosion of any type.

If an Explosion Occurs

On the Street:
  • Regain your bearings. Determine if you are injured, and where the blast occurred.
  • Move immediately in the opposite direction of the blast.
  • Do not walk close to buildings, as glass and debris may still be falling.
  • Once you are out of the danger area (at least three blocks), try to remember and write down any information you can about the event.  Anything you can remember may be helpful later on.
In a Building:
  • Regain your bearings.  Determine if you are injured, and note structural damage.
  • Quickly note secondary hazards – fire, smoke, toxic fumes and the smell of gas.
  • Determine whether you should evacuate or shelter in place.
  • Once clear of the danger area, record all information.
On a Train:
  • Regain your bearings. Determine if you are injured and note structural damage.
  • Quickly note secondary hazards – fire, smoke, toxic fumes.
  • Both the tunnel and the train will be dark – move as slowly as is practical. 
  • Upon exiting the train, be careful to avoid the charged rail.
  • Move as a group away from the train.
If There is a Fire:
  • Fires often occur after a building explosion.
  • Exit the building quickly and quietly.
  • Crawl low if there is smoke.
  • Use a wet cloth, if possible, to cover your nose and mouth.
  • Use the back of your hand to feel the upper, lower, and middle parts of closed doors.
  • If the door is not hot, brace yourself against it and open it slowly.
  • If the door is hot, do not open it. Look for another way out.
  • Do not use elevators.
  • If your clothes catch on fire, do not run. STOP where you are, DROP to the ground, and ROLL over and over to smother the flames.
  • If you are at home, go to your previously designated meeting place.
  • Account for your family members and carefully supervise small children.
  • Never go back into a burning building.
If You Are Trapped By Debris:
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth or clothing.
  • Move around as little as possible to avoid kicking up dust, which is harmful to inhale.
  • If possible, use a flashlight so that you can see your surroundings.
  • Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can hear where you are. Use a whistle if you have one.
  • Shout only as a last resort, as shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

 
 
 Ready Notify PA Logo
  
Find PhilaOEM On:
 

search login