THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, April 13, 1995 TAG: 9504130141
SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN PAGE: 14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Cover Story
SOURCE: Susie Stoughton
DATELINE: SUFFOLK LENGTH: Medium: 55 lines
Emergency workers always anticipate the worst.
``We have to be pessimistic,'' said Lt. Jeff Messinger, Suffolk Fire Department spokesman. ``We take the worst-case-scenario approach to everything.''
The response can later be scaled back, if needed, Messinger said.
``We run a full-case scenario and treat it as such until we know what we're dealing with,'' he said.
The city's emergency responders are prepared to handle all sorts of emergencies. But many incidents - particularly misuse of household chemicals and fuels - can be avoided.
Careful use and storage of cleaning supplies is vital, Messinger said.
Household chemicals, such as bleach and ammonia, are commonly abused.
``They're not made to mix,'' Messinger said. And when they do, the results can be disastrous.
Improper storage also can cause problems. A bottle of mineral oil could turn over in a cabinet and spill onto a soap scrubbing pad - such as Brillo - sparking a fire, Messinger said.
``There are a thousand different substances that are not hazardous in themselves,'' said Robert L. Smith, emergency services coordinator. ``But when you start mixing them, it causes problems.
``Read the label,'' he said.
Often bleach is used to clean a shower or bathtub, Smith said. But if the area isn't rinsed, the bleach can react with another product later.
``That can be real hazardous, especially if you have asthma,'' he said. ``You really need to read the labels before you start mixing anything.''
The same caution applies to spring yard work. Before using power tools, read the instruction manual. When applying lawn chemicals, read the directions.
Here are some of the precautions issued by the emergency workers:
Store all cleaning products separately, in tight containers.
Never mix bleach with any other cleaning agent.
Never wash out an empty bleach bottle and pour something else into it.
Never store anything flammable, including lighter fluid or lamp oil, in the house.
Always wear appropriate safety gear - ear and eye protection, gloves, long pants and sturdy shoes - when using yard equipment.
Read the label before applying any lawn care product. ILLUSTRATION: Photo
Don't mix household chemicals, such as bleach and ammonia.
by CNB