Shelter-in-Place Advisory – Bergen

Published on June 17, 2026

A shelter-in-place advisory has been issued for the area around 15 Church Street in Bergen due to a reported hazardous materials leak. The entire village of Bergen is currently under this advisory. A 1/2 mile radius around 15 Churst Street has been established, but could change with wind conditions.

Bergen Fire, the Genesee County Hazmat Team, and Mercy Medic 1 are responding.

Residents in the affected area should stay indoors and avoid the area while emergency crews respond.

What Residents Should Do

• Stay indoors until emergency officials say it is safe to leave.
• Close and lock all doors, including garage doors to the outside.
• Close and lock all windows. Doors and windows may seal better when locked.
• Turn off air conditioners, heating systems, exhaust fans and ventilation systems.
• If possible, switch air inlets to the closed position.
• Close fireplace dampers.
• Close as many interior doors as possible.
• Keep pets inside.
• Avoid using elevators, as they may draw outside air into the building.
• Avoid open spaces in the upper levels of buildings, as ammonia gas is lighter than air and may collect in these areas.

Additional Shelter-In-Place Instructions for Ammonia Releases

• Building superintendents should set ventilation systems to 100 percent recirculation so that no outside air is drawn into the structure. If this is not possible, ventilation systems should be turned off.
• Use tape and plastic food wrapping, wax paper or aluminum wrap to cover and seal bathroom exhaust fan grills, range vents, dryer vents and other openings to the outside, if possible.
• Seal any gaps around window air conditioners with tape and plastic sheeting, wax paper or aluminum wrap.
• If the ammonia smell starts to bother you, hold a wet cloth or handkerchief over your nose and mouth.
• For a higher degree of protection, go into a bathroom, close the door and turn on the shower in a strong spray to help “wash” the air.
• Seal any openings to the outside of the bathroom as best you can.

Do not worry about running out of air to breathe, as this is highly unlikely in an average home or building.

Stay Informed

Tune in to emergency alerts on radio, television, local media or official County communication channels for further information and guidance.

This advisory will remain in effect until emergency officials determine the area is safe.

More information will be shared as it becomes available.