Which resource should an emergency responder contact first for outside assistance at an incident?

• A. LEPC (local emergency planning committee)
• B. OSHA
• C. Red Cross
• D. EPA

Answer: (A)

When a hazardous materials incident requires outside help, the first point of contact is the Local Emergency Planning Committee. The LEPC is the local hub established to coordinate emergency planning, response actions, and resource needs for chemical hazards in the community. They maintain knowledge of local facilities, chemical inventories, and the trained responders available, and they have established lines of communication to state and federal agencies as well as mutual-aid resources. Reaching the LEPC quickly helps mobilize the right outside expertise—such as specialized hazmat teams, environmental responders, and regulatory contacts—without delays.

OSHA focuses on worker safety at places of employment, not the initial coordination of community-wide incident response. The Red Cross provides welfare support and shelter, which becomes relevant after immediate hazards are controlled. The EPA handles environmental protection and regulatory matters, but they are typically brought in through the LEPC or state channels rather than contacted first at the scene.