What is the first priority at a hazmat incident?

• A. Public information
• B. Life safety
• C. Property protection
• D. Environmental protection

Answer: (B)

The first priority is life safety—protecting people and responders at the scene. In a hazmat incident you immediately focus on removing or rescuing anyone at risk, establishing a safe perimeter, and ensuring responders have the proper PPE and training to work safely. Decontamination and medical care for potential exposure are started as needed. This focus on saving lives drives every other action, because without people alive and safe, efforts to stop the release, protect property, or shield the environment don’t accomplish the mission. After life safety is secured, you shift to incident stabilization, then to protecting property and the environment. Public information and other concerns are important, but they come after ensuring people aren’t in danger.