“There are more than 75,000 different hazardous materials in the United States, with new chemicals being produced every year. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) estimates 10% of all commercial cargo is hazardous material.”

Common hazardous materials encountered by police can include, but are not limited to the following:
•poisons
•explosives
•corrosive agents
•flammable gasses, solids and liquids

When the use or transportation of hazardous materials results in an accident or emergency, police are usually the first responders to arrive. Officers must identify the hazardous material as quickly as possible, take steps needed to minimize safety risks, and request specialized assistance.