One of the roles of the first responder at the awareness level during a haz mat incident is to:

• A. Establish a decontamination zone
• B. Assist in clean-up efforts
• C. Secure the area
• D. Identify the chemical involved

Answer: (C)

The role of the first responder at the awareness level during a hazardous materials incident primarily involves recognizing the potential hazards and ensuring safety for both themselves and others. Securing the area is critical because it helps prevent additional exposure to hazards, protects the public, and allows higher-level responders to operate effectively. The first responder establishes a safe perimeter around the incident but does not engage in direct response actions, like establishing decontamination zones or assisting in clean-up efforts, which require more advanced training.

Identification of the chemical involved is typically handled by those with specialized training and access to safety data sheets or other resources, beyond the initial awareness level responsibilities that focus on basic safety and security of the scene.