What is one of the main purposes of securing the hazardous waste area?

Securing the hazardous waste area primarily serves to maintain public health and safety. By restricting access to these areas, emergency responders can prevent unauthorized individuals from entering locations that may contain potentially dangerous substances. This minimizes the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals or conditions for both the general public and the responders themselves. Keeping the area secure also allows trained personnel to manage the situation effectively without interference, ensuring that risks associated with the hazardous materials are contained and controlled.

In contrast, the options related to tourism, media coverage, or collection of materials do not align with the essential purpose of securing hazardous waste sites. While managing public access is crucial, it is fundamentally tied to ensuring safety rather than any secondary objectives like tourism or news reporting.