What should firefighters do first when responding to a hazardous materials call?

When responding to a hazardous materials call, the first action firefighters should take is to identify the substance involved. This is crucial because understanding the type of hazardous material present directly informs the subsequent actions and safety measures that need to be implemented. Different substances have different hazards, behaviors, and required responses.

Identifying the chemical or material in question allows firefighters to assess risks, such as toxicity levels, flammability, and reactions with water or other substances. This information helps determine whether evacuation procedures are necessary, establishes safe distances for responders, and guides the selection of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and firefighting techniques.

Establishing a perimeter and beginning evacuation procedures are important, but they should follow the identification of the substance. Without knowing what the substance is, it may not be safe or appropriate to initiate those actions. Using fire hoses immediately could exacerbate the situation if the material is reactive to water or not fire-related, making the identification of the substance vital to ensure safety.