What type of incident typically requires the use of the ERG?

The Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) is specifically designed to assist first responders in effectively managing hazardous materials incidents. These incidents can involve the release of toxic or flammable substances, and the ERG provides crucial information on identifying the hazardous material, recommended safety measures, evacuation distances, and treatments for exposure. The guide is an essential tool that helps responders quickly assess the situation and determine the appropriate response to protect life and the environment.

In contrast, while fire incidents can involve hazardous materials, the ERG is not solely focused on general fire situations where the materials may not be classified as hazardous. Medical emergencies and natural disasters also do not specifically pertain to hazardous materials, so the ERG would not be the most relevant resource for those scenarios. Therefore, the context in which the ERG is intended to be used makes hazardous materials incidents the correct answer.