Utah Special Function Officer (SFO) Practice Exam

What is the recommended method for decontaminating wet chemicals at a scene?

1. Wipe off with a rag

2. Spray with a fire extinguisher

3. Rinse with water

4. Leave the area immediately

The correct answer is: Rinse with water

The recommended method for decontaminating wet chemicals at a scene is to rinse with water. This approach is effective because water can dilute and wash away many types of chemicals, thereby reducing their concentration and potential harmful effects. Rinsing with water also helps to prevent the chemicals from causing further contamination of the area and protects the health and safety of individuals handling the situation. Using water not only aids in cleaning the affected surfaces but can also mitigate the risk of human exposure to hazardous materials. It is essential to ensure that the water used is safe for the type of chemical present because certain chemicals react negatively with water. However, as a general practice, rinsing with water is a widely accepted method of dealing with wet chemical contamination. While wiping off with a rag or spraying with a fire extinguisher may seem like viable options in theory, they may not effectively neutralize or remove the hazardous substances. Wiping can spread the contamination or fail to remove it entirely, and using a fire extinguisher could exacerbate the situation if the chemicals are not compatible with the extinguishing agent. Leaving the area immediately can be appropriate in cases of extreme danger, but it does not address the need for decontamination.