In the past few weeks, both Butler and Adrian fire departments have been dispatched on reports of anhydrous ammonia leaking from portable tanks like the one shown here. While these leaks have been deemed accidental, keep in mind that tanks in remote areas are easy prey for those who steal anhydrous ammonia to use in the manufacture of methamphetamine.
Regardless of how or why someone is exposed, anhydrous ammonia can lead to serious health problems or death. Here's answers to some common questions:
What are the immediate health effects of exposure to anhydrous ammonia?
Symptoms include burning of the eyes, nose, and throat after breathing even small amounts. With higher doses, coughing or choking may occur. Exposure to high levels of anhydrous ammonia can cause death from a swollen throat or from chemical burns to the lungs.
Eye exposure to concentrated gas or liquid can cause serious corneal burns or blindness. Generally, the severity of symptoms depends on the degree of exposure.
What is the treatment for anhydrous ammonia exposure?
There is no specific treatment for the effects of anhydrous ammonia. Immediate first aid includes providing fresh air, oxygen and flushing with water.
Are any future health effects likely to occur?
Most people recover from a single low exposure to anhydrous ammonia without any delayed or long-term effects. After a severe exposure, injury to the eyes, lungs, skin, or digestive system may continue to develop for 18 to 24 hours, and delayed effects primarily to the respiratory system or the eyes are possible.
While those legitimately using it are inclined to be careful when handling anhydrous, those who are in a hurry to steal it may not- which not only puts them at risk but everyone else including law enforcement and first responders, making the situation quite dangerous.
Some tips:
1. Watch for unknown or suspicious vehicles near the tanks or parked down the road from the tanks.
2. Flashlights seen near tanks late at night.
3. If driving through an area you smell a pungent odor, it may be leaking anhydrous ammonia. Do not stop and investigate. Call 911, report it and leave the area.
4. If exposed to anhydrous ammonia go to the emergency room immediately, regardless of how little you might have been exposed to.
Suspicious activity tips may also be reported through the Bates County Sheriff's web site here.
