What should a member do immediately after experiencing an exposure?

The correct course of action for a member immediately after experiencing an exposure is to wash hands and any skin with soap and water. This step is crucial because it helps to remove contaminants that may have come into contact with the skin, thereby preventing the potential transmission of harmful substances or pathogens. Proper hygiene practices are essential in emergency response settings to ensure the safety and health of all personnel, as well as to minimize the risk of spreading infections.

Timely cleansing of exposed areas is often emphasized in health and safety protocols, particularly when considering exposure to potentially hazardous materials or biological agents. This immediate response can significantly reduce the likelihood of adverse health effects resulting from the exposure.

Other actions listed, such as reporting to the media, ignoring the exposure, or taking a break from duties, do not address the immediate need to mitigate potential harm from the exposure and could compromise the safety of the individual and their colleagues.