When they're first released Hazardous Materials can represent extreme danger to both the public and the first responders.

The scene of an incident can be chaotic, so the right actions may not always be obvious. The first challenge of any responder is to properly identify the components of the scene and to bring the proper equipment to isolate and eliminate the potential danger to both those directly involved in the incident and to those responsible for resolving the danger.

The complexity of these events is magnified by the potential of contamination along with the need to remove debris or wreckage caused by the event precipitating the accident. This is especially true when casualties are involved or the scene is compromised by restricted access, terrain or darkness.

Now with the Forward Observer camera sending images back to the emergency dispatch command through cameras left in place by the first responders, the responders can move to the rear and personnel in the emergency response center can allocate the needed equipment without endangering themselves any longer than necessary.

The Forward Observer system offers the first responders the ability to place cameras strategically around the site and to do remote assessment of the problems that may be involved in the clean-up or casualty evacuation.