What should you do if you encounter a hazardous substance spill?

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Hazardous spills demand immediate safety action. The priority is to protect yourself and others from exposure and harm, which means evacuating the area, avoiding contact with the substance, and getting trained help on the scene. These substances can irritate or burn skin and eyes, damage the lungs if inhaled, or contaminate the environment. Moving people away to fresh air and keeping the area clear minimizes risk while professionals equipped with the right PPE and cleanup procedures handle containment and disposal. Cleaning up without protection or guidance is dangerous because the exact risks depend on the substance and quantity, and attempting to manage it yourself can spread contamination. Asking a friend won’t provide the authoritative instructions needed in an emergency. Evacuate and contact emergency services or local authorities to ensure a safe response.