What is the first step in the pollution incident response process?

The correct answer focuses on assessing the extent and type of pollution as the first step in the pollution incident response process. This initial assessment is crucial because it provides responders with essential information about the nature of the pollutant, the area affected, and the potential impact on the environment and public health. By understanding the type of pollution and its severity, responders can develop an appropriate strategy for containment, cleanup, and mitigation.

Conducting a legal proceeding or summoning federal response teams are actions that follow once sufficient information has been gathered and the situation is understood. Similarly, implementing a public information campaign is also a secondary measure that typically occurs once the initial assessment has been completed and a clear plan of action is established. The success of the entire response effort hinges on this first critical step of assessment, as it informs all subsequent actions and decisions made during the incident response. This foundational understanding ensures that the response is effective and targeted towards the specific challenges presented by the pollution incident.