How should runoff from decontamination and fire suppression be handled if practical?

Runoff from decontamination and fire suppression must be contained to ensure that harmful substances do not spread to unintended areas or enter water systems that could lead to environmental contamination. Containment involves using barriers, absorbent materials, or temporary storage to manage the runoff effectively. This is crucial for minimizing potential harm to both humans and the ecosystem.

By keeping the runoff contained, it enables responsible disposal or treatment of the water, ensuring that any hazardous materials are managed according to safety regulations and environmental guidelines. This practice protects both public health and the environment, preventing issues such as pollution of soil and water sources, which could have long-lasting detrimental effects.

Allowing the runoff to flow freely or redirecting it to water sources would pose significant risks, as these actions could lead to widespread contamination. Preventing runoff from entering drainage systems is also important, but containment is a more proactive approach, ensuring that all potentially hazardous runoff is managed effectively at the source.