Upon arriving at a scene with a hazardous materials incident, you should:

In the event of a hazardous materials incident, prioritizing safety is essential for both emergency responders and bystanders. Parking upwind from the scene is crucial because it helps minimize exposure to toxic or dangerous substances that may be released into the environment. By positioning the emergency vehicle upwind, responders can avoid the potential path of airborne contaminants, which is vital for their safety and for effective response actions.

This strategic placement allows for better situational awareness and can facilitate a safer environment for assessing the situation and determining necessary tactical responses. It is also important for preventing further complications that could arise from exposure to hazardous materials.

The focus on safety is why this approach is correct in managing a hazardous materials incident. Other actions, such as quickly identifying the material, staying downhill, or turning off warning lights, may not prioritize responder safety effectively or could complicate the situation further.