Illinois HazMat Ops Practice Exam

What action should an awareness level person take during a terrorist incident?

1. Direct other response teams to the scene

2. Isolate and prevent contaminated individuals from leaving

3. Engage with the perpetrators

4. Initiate a public evacuation announcement

The correct answer is: Isolate and prevent contaminated individuals from leaving

During a terrorist incident, the appropriate action for someone at the awareness level is to isolate and prevent contaminated individuals from leaving the scene. This response is crucial because it helps contain the potential spread of any hazardous materials or threats that may be present. By isolating contaminated individuals, it minimizes the risk to other people and aids in the overall management of the incident. Containment allows trained responders to assess the situation more effectively and implement the necessary measures to ensure public safety. The context of this action lies in the understanding that individuals who may be contaminated could pose a risk not only to themselves but to others if they escape from the scene. Therefore, awareness level personnel should focus on safety and cooperation with emergency responders, keeping the area secure until more qualified teams can take over. In contrast, directing other response teams to the scene requires knowledge and authority that typically exceeds an awareness level responder's responsibilities. Engaging with perpetrators poses significant risks both to the individual and to the general public, as it could escalate the situation. Initiating a public evacuation announcement is also beyond the scope of awareness level training, as this requires coordination with public safety officials to ensure that the evacuation is done safely and effectively.