Where does the red zone really begin? At a hazmat incident, control zones must reflect more than the visible spill or damaged container. Product behavior, weather, topography, exposure pathways and changing conditions can all affect where personnel and equipment can safely operate.
Download this field checklist for practical guidance on establishing and adjusting hazmat control zones as an incident develops. Use it during training, preplanning or on scene to support safer, more informed decisions, including how to:
- Assess key factors before positioning personnel or apparatus
- Establish clear red, yellow and green zone functions
- Recognize when new information or changing conditions require zones to be redrawn
Get your copy of the hazmat zone field checklist by filling out the form on this page.
Editor’s note: Sept. 28-Oct. 2 marks the start of Hazmat Week 2026 — a time for all firefighters to elevate their hazmat training. Learn more about how to Know Your Zone at FireRescue1’s Hazmat Week resource center.
