What should responders do to avoid contamination during a hazardous materials incident?

To avoid contamination during a hazardous materials incident, responders should prioritize staying uphill, upwind, and utilizing physical barriers. Staying uphill and upwind helps responders avoid the path of potential hazardous spills or vapors, which tend to travel downward and with the wind. By maintaining a safe distance from the source of contamination, responders can greatly reduce their risk of exposure to hazardous substances.

Using physical barriers, such as dikes or containment structures, can further prevent the spread of hazardous materials and protect both responders and the surrounding environment. These strategies are essential for maintaining safety during an incident and for effectively managing the situation without becoming victims themselves.

When considering other available strategies, relying solely on water for decontamination can be ineffective with certain hazardous materials, and staying downhill and downwind increases the risk of exposure to hazardous vapors or runoff. Additionally, not wearing protective gear significantly heightens the risk of contamination and potential health hazards, contradicting the fundamental principle of safety in hazardous materials response.