In which zone should you avoid unnecessary risks?

The hot zone is the area that poses the greatest risk to safety and is typically where an active threat or hazardous situation exists, such as a violent encounter, an active shooter scenario, or a hazardous materials incident. In this zone, conditions are unpredictable and it may be difficult to control the environment, which means that unnecessary risks should be avoided to ensure the safety of responders and civilians alike.

In contrast, the cold zone is considered safe and is where first responders can regroup, plan, and assess the situation without immediate danger. The warm zone serves as a buffer between the hot and cold zones, where certain risks are present, but response operations can still occur with caution. The secure zone, while not typically referenced in the same way as the other zones, is often a safe area that should always be kept protected from unauthorized access.

By prioritizing safety in the hot zone and maintaining vigilance, responders can effectively manage the incident and protect themselves and others from harm.