What should be done if an accident involves hazardous materials?

When an accident involves hazardous materials, the priority is to ensure safety and prevent any further incidents. Notifying emergency services is crucial because they are trained to handle hazardous materials and can take the necessary steps to manage the situation safely. Securing the area is equally important to protect the public and minimize exposure to the hazardous substance, which could pose significant risks to health and safety.

In contrast, ignoring the materials can lead to greater danger, including environmental contamination and health risks to nearby individuals. Attempting to clean up the materials without proper training and equipment could result in harm to the individual attempting the cleanup and further complicate the situation. Simply documenting the scene without taking action could overlook the immediate dangers posed by the hazardous materials, putting lives at risk. Therefore, the correct approach emphasizes notifying emergency services and securing the area to ensure a swift and safe response to the incident.