Piper City Fire Department issued the following announcement on March 24.
If you ever come upon a scene such as this - STAY AWAY! STAY UPWIND!
Anhydrous Ammonia is widely used by farmers in the field and under proper care and operations it can be safe and effective. Anhydrous means without water and is stored under pressure.
In the event of an accidental release, the Anhydrous Ammonia may appear as a cloud of smoke. Anhydrous ammonia is caustic and causes severe chemical burns. Body tissues that contain a high percentage of water, such as the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract, are very easily burned.
NEVER assume you can get through this cloud in an attempt to stop the leak or maybe save someone that has been found unconscious in the area of the tank - STAY AWAY, CALL 911 and STAY UPWIND.
Original source can be found here.
Source: Piper City Fire Department
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