Being the first on the scene at an incident involving hazardous materials requires good training and good information. The more you know about the hazardous materials that are involved, the better the chances of handling the incident the safest way possible. Much of the information first responders need is contained the Emergency Response Guidebook. Knowing the proper way to use the Emergency Response Guidebook gives any person that may have to deal with an incident involving hazardous materials important information that allows them to take the first and most important steps to protect themselves and everyone involved in the incident.