5: Alkali and alkaline earth metals and related compounds

The majority of these chemicals are highly flammable solids.

Note: These compounds may react violently with water

First Action

1. Eliminate all possible sources of ignition.

2. Taking into account all immediate circumstances decide whether to:

   1. control the spillage, or

   2. evacuate the building by sounding the fire alarm and call the fire brigade.

Small Spills

1. Cover the spillage with an excess of dry anhydrous sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate. Mix well. Reacts violently with water so ensure dry.

2. Slowly and carefully add the resulting mixture to butyl alcohol in a large container such as a 5 litre beaker or bucket.