13 - RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE 2017 LAMAR COUNTY MITIGATION PLAN

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Lamar County Multi- Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Chapter Three 5. Probability of Future Events The transport of hazardous material and explosives through Lamar County is regulated by the State Department of Transportation. Hazardous Materials are transported to and through the county by vehicles using Hwy 82 and other main arteries. The risk of hazardous material spills during transport exists and may increase with the continued industrial development of the County. Many businesses through intentional action, lack of awareness, or accidental occurrences have caused contamination on and around their properties. 6. Vulnerability All persons and properties in Lamar County are susceptible to a hazardous material release or spill with little or no warning. The degree to which the population and properties depends on factors multiplied by various conditions. These factors and conditions include the material, toxicity, duration of the release and environmental conditions such as the wind and precipitation. Lamar County transportation system doesn't require the transportation of hazardous material to avoid driving though the city. This means that potentially lethal ,hazardous, and flammable materials pass within two hundred feet of critical infrastructure such as the Lamar County Courthouse. 7. Secondary Hazards A hazardous material accident can have secondary effects on the environment, local economy, and society. IF the materials spilled are flammable, both urban and rural fires can occur. The greatest secondary effect is associated with transportation accidents that occur on major transportation routes. These events can casue traffic accident and have the potential to expose a moving population to toxic chemicals without a way of monitoring any lasting effects. 8. Overall Summary of Vulnerability and Impacts In a hazardous material incident, solid liquid, and /or gaseous contaminants may be released from fixed or mobile containers. Weather conditions will directly affect how the hazard develops. The micro - meterological effects of building and terrain can alter travel and duration of agents. Shielding in the form of sheltering -in -place can protect people and property from harmful effects. Non - compliance with fire and building codes as well as failure to maintain existing fire and containment features can substantially increase the damage from a hazardous materials release. 154