What should responders do if they encounter a controlled burn during a hazardous materials incident?

When responders come across a controlled burn during a hazardous materials incident, assessing whether the burn affects safety is crucial. This assessment involves evaluating how the controlled burn may influence the situation at hand, including potential hazards from both the controlled fire and the hazardous materials involved.

Responders need to determine if the smoke or heat from the controlled burn could react with the hazardous substances, potentially leading to a change in the incident's risk level. It's equally important to consider whether the fire poses a threat to personnel, the environment, or the containment efforts.

By conducting this assessment, responders can make informed decisions moving forward, such as whether to proceed with their operations or take additional precautions. This approach aligns with established protocols in emergency response, where understanding the dynamic nature of the incident is key to ensuring safety and effective operations.