The goal of an emergency decon procedure is to:

• A. Remove any threatening contamination as quickly as possible
• B. Reduce exposure by partial decon
• C. Contain the product to a single area
• D. Decontaminate all responders only

Answer: (A)

Emergency decon is a rapid, initial step designed to remove contamination from people and equipment so exposure and secondary spread are minimized. The emphasis is on getting the contaminant off as quickly as possible, even if it's a rough, first-pass removal. This makes it the best answer because the primary aim is speed—to reduce danger right away for anyone exposed, including responders and bystanders.

Partial decon doesn’t capture the urgency and breadth of this early action, since the goal isn’t just a partial reduction but a quick removal of the immediate threat. Containing the product to a single area is important for scene control, but it isn’t the objective of the decon itself. Decontaminating all responders only is incorrect because the decon process targets anyone exposed, not exclusively responders.