Chemical Plant Explosions, Evacuations, and Car Accidents

A process tower flies through air after exploding at the TPC Group Petrochemical Plant, after an earlier massive explosion sparked a blaze at the plant in Port Neches, Texas.

For the majority of the population, you will not have to worry about a chemical plant explosion and evacuations. 

But for those who do live by chemical plants, there is always the chance that there could be an explosion, and you will have to gather your things and evacuate.

You then have the fear of the unknown and the panic can set in. One explosion could lead to another explosion or deadly gases could be getting leaked into the air. 

What is an evacuation order?

Depending on the severity of the explosion, the chemicals in the plant, and if there is a potential for another explosion; your local area could call for a mandatory evacuation.

What Are The Causes Of Chemical Plant Explosions?

Chemical plants can explode for numerous reasons. Some of them being negligence to maintenance, not following safety protocol, and faulty equipment. 

What Should You Do If You Have To Evacuate? 

Don’t waste time. You won’t be able to grab all of your belongings, but make sure to load up your family, pets, and what you can quickly grab. Of course, depending on how close you are to the plant, the active chemicals, the wind direction; you might have more time to gather your things.

But if you are unsure of how severe it is, it is better to be safe than sorry. Get what you need and get out.

Stay Calm and Be Patient

If your local authorities have put a mandatory evacuation in place, there is a good chance there will be traffic and panic throughout town.

Stay calm and be patient. Trying to hurry and speed out of town, will only make things worse for everyone involved. The roads will be filled with distracted drivers, so pay close attention to your surroundings, and find the shortest route out of town.

The All Clear

When you get the all-clear and are allowed to return home, assess your damages to your house and property. If there are any damages caused by the explosion, contact a lawyer who specializes in chemical plant explosions. 

A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, and if you have a case worth filing a lawsuit over to get compensation to repair the damages.