Chemical Distributors and Transporters of Hazardous Materials Advised to Take Extra Precautions
WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is advising shippers and transporters of hazardous materials to consider altering their routes to avoid populated areas "whenever practicable," and to take other safety precautions as a result of a heightened state of alert related to the threat of additional terrorist actions in the United States.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta urged transportation workers to "watch for and report any suspicious activities they may see." Hazardous materials vehicles should not be left unattended, and "companies should ensure that hazardous materials are in responsible and reliable hands," he said.