What is mutual aid in the context of HazMat response?

Mutual aid in the context of HazMat response refers to an agreement between agencies to provide assistance during a large-scale incident. This concept is crucial because HazMat incidents can quickly overwhelm the resources of a single agency, requiring support from neighboring jurisdictions or other organizations. Through mutual aid agreements, agencies can come together to coordinate their responses effectively, share resources, personnel, and expertise, and ensure that a more robust and effective action is taken to manage the emergency situation. This collaborative approach is essential for maximizing safety and minimizing the impact of the incident on the community and the environment.