Which of the following statements is true regarding risks during an incident?

During an incident, risks are typically greater early on due to a variety of factors such as the chaotic nature of the situation, the presence of hazards that may not yet be fully assessed, and the likelihood of unforeseen circumstances arising. Initially, responders may encounter unexpected dangers, and the environment can be unstable or continuously changing. This heightened risk can also stem from incomplete information about the incident scene, which can complicate the ability to make safe decisions.

As the incident evolves, responders often gain a clearer understanding of the situation, implement safety protocols, and establish containment strategies, which generally leads to a decrease in risk over time. The response team can conduct assessments to identify and mitigate hazards, thereby improving safety for everyone involved. Recognizing that risks are initially highest encourages appropriate caution and readiness to manage the incident effectively.