If explosives are suspected to be compromised during an egress, what is the first priority?

• A. Continue evacuating and report later.
• B. Disarm on-site.
• C. Isolate and secure per procedures and evacuate if necessary; notify command.
• D. Ignore and hope it's resolved.

Answer: (C)

When explosives are suspected to be compromised during an egress, the priority is to minimize risk to people by isolating and securing the device per established procedures, evacuating if the situation requires it, and notifying command. Isolating and securing means creating a controlled perimeter, restricting access, and not handling or moving the device unless trained personnel with proper authority and tools are present. Evacuating as needed ensures anyone outside the danger zone is kept safe. Notifying command brings in the appropriate response, such as bomb squad or EOD, and ensures the incident is managed through the proper chain of command. Continuing evacuation without securing the device delays control of the hazard; attempting to disarm on-site should be left to trained specialists; and ignoring the risk is unacceptable.