Special Cases
What is a Special Case Emergency?
A special case emergency is an emergency that does not fit neatly into common categories (like fires, floods, or medical emergencies) and requires unique procedures, special equipment, or specially trained responders.
A special case emergency usually i,/p>nvolves unusual or complex hazards that require special response plans, may affect many people at once, and needs coordination between multiple organizations.
Examples of special case emergencies
- Chemical or hazardous materials incidents
- Biological emergencies (disease outbreaks)
- Radiological or nuclear incidents
- Mass casualty events
What are chemical and hazardous materials incidents?
Chemical and hazardous materials incidents are events where dangerous substances are released, spilled, leaked, or improperly used, posing a risk to people, property, or the environment. These materials can be:
- Toxic (poisonous to humans or animals)
- Flammable or explosive
- Corrosive (can burn skin or damage materials)
- Radioactive
Preparing for chemical and hazardous materials incidents
Learn the risks in your area
Know if nearby factories, labs, farms, railways, or highways transport chemicals
Learn basic hazard warning symbols (toxic, flammable, corrosive)
Know warning signs and alerts
Sirens, public announcements, texts, or school alerts may warn of a release
Strong or unusual smells, visible clouds, or sudden illness can be signs
Always follow official instructions immediately
Make an emergency plan
Know evacuation routes and safe shelter locations, if designated
Decide how family members will communicate if separated
Identify a trusted meeting place
Prepare an emergency supply kit
Water and non-perishable food
First aid supplies
Prescribed Medicines.
Masks or clothes to cover mouth and nose
Gloves
Flashlight and batteries
Phone charger or power bank
Safety During a Chemical Hazardous Materials Incident
Safety After a Chemical & Hazardous Materials Incident
Resources
- National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA)
https://www.ncema.gov.ae - UAE Civil Defense (General Directorate of Civil Defense)
https://www.civildefense.gov.ae - UAE Ministry of Interior (MOI)
https://www.moi.gov.ae - Ready.gov (U.S. Department of Homeland Security)
https://www.ready.gov/chemical - Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
https://www.fema.gov - World Health Organization (WHO)
https://www.who.int - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
https://www.cdc.gov/chemical-emergencies - Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
https://www.osha.gov/hazards