What should a fire officer do when encountering a hazardous materials incident?

In the scenario of encountering a hazardous materials incident, the appropriate course of action is to follow established protocols for containment and evacuation. This is essential because hazardous materials incidents pose significant risks not only to the responders but also to the public and the environment.

Following these protocols ensures that the situation is managed safely and effectively, prioritizing life safety above all. This includes assessing the scene for hazards, notifying the appropriate authorities such as the fire department's hazardous materials team, and implementing evacuation plans for nearby individuals if necessary.

Using established guidelines and checklists helps fire officers make sound decisions under pressure, reducing the chances of escalation and exposure to harmful substances. It also facilitates coordination with specialized teams and resources designed to handle hazardous situations.

The other options, such as alerting the media, attempting to contain the hazard alone, or ignoring the incident, do not align with these critical safety procedures and strategies. These actions could lead to misinformation, increased danger, and further complications in managing the response effectively.