"Due to the potential threat of an emergency at one of the settlement's industrial enterprises, which may be accompanied by the release of ammonia into the ambient air, we urge residents to remain calm, stay alert, and strictly adhere to safety rules," he wrote.
Havrylyuk underscored that ammonia is a highly toxic, corrosive chemical that severely irritates the eyes and respiratory system and can cause acute chemical poisoning. In the event of a verified release, residents were instructed to immediately seek shelter in the nearest enclosed structure, shut and seal all windows and doors, block ventilation ducts, and switch off any air intake or conditioning systems drawing air from outdoors.
Because ammonia gas is lighter than air and rises rapidly, authorities advised citizens sheltering indoors to remain on lower floors. For individual respiratory defense, officials recommended wearing industrial gas masks or, in their absence, covering the mouth and nose with thick cloth bandages soaked in water. Residents were urged to refrain from going outdoors without urgent necessity, and in the event an evacuation is ordered, to follow designated routes and obey all instructions from emergency rescue personnel.
Havrylyuk added that anyone forced to evacuate a contaminated zone on foot should move strictly perpendicular to the wind direction. If experiencing eye irritation, sharp coughing, eye tearing, or labored breathing, residents should evacuate to clean air if safe to do so and seek immediate medical assistance.
Devastating Aerial Onslaught Across Volyn Oblast
Overnight into Oct. 16, Russian strike drones pounded Volyn Oblast, damaging commercial and industrial enterprises in both Manevychi and the regional center of Lutsk.
At least two people were confirmed injured in the strikes, while the condition and location of five other workers remain unaccounted for as emergency teams clear debris.
The mass strike severed regional electrical transmission networks, cutting power to 370k subscribers and leaving the entire city of Lutsk without electricity.