HAZ-MAT  or Hazardous Materials is classified as any substance, man-made or natural, that in sufficient quantities poses an undue threat to health or the environment.  This could be anything from gasoline, motor oil, or diesel fuel, to some really nasty chemicals with names as long as an interstate highway.  Whereas most of these substances have a practical purpose in our daily lives, we must ensure that they are disposed of properly.  We must also ensure that when accidental or intentional releases of these substances into the environment are made, that their impact is minimal.  In order to effectively respond to these releases, the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management has implemented a Hazardous Materials Response System known as the Regional Response Teams (RRT).  There are six of these teams stationed across the State in strategic locations.  Each team consists of a response vehicle, specialized response equipment, and  highly trained personnel.

Recently in Granville County, a situation arose which required a response from RRT-4, which is stationed at the Parkwood Fire Department in Durham, NC.  A residential trash pick up service noticed that smoke was coming from the back of the truck, and called for the local fire department.  Upon response from the fire department, they noticed an unmarked container at the rear of the truck with a clear liquid and smoke coming from it.  Trying to be on the safe side of the situation, the truck was moved to a safer area, away from residents, where the container could be more readily examined.  Once the container was removed, a small portion of the liquid was spilled onto the ground, and it began to boil and bubble.  A decision was made to contact RRT-4 to help identify the substance and its potential hazards.  RRT-4 responded in less than 45 minutes, and trained personnel were able to identify the substance as Sulfuric Acid.  It was quickly isolated and a commercial company was contacted to properly dispose of it.  Although the actual hazards of the substance were small, before identifying it, we needed to take all precautions to ensure that life was preserved and unharmed.  A special thanks to RRT-4 for their quick and efficient response to our situation.  It's nice to know that they are ready, willing and able to handle situations like this one.