Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) RADIO Practice Exam

Which situation would require declaring an 'Explosion'?

1. Suspicious Package found

2. Significant noise without visible cause

3. Fire reported in a commercial area

4. Actual observed blast or detonation

The correct answer is: Actual observed blast or detonation

Declaring an 'Explosion' is warranted in the case of an actual observed blast or detonation because this situation indicates that a significant and immediate threat has occurred. The involvement of an explosion is not only a matter of potential harm, but it also requires a clear and prompt response from emergency services to manage the scene, address safety concerns, and investigate the cause. The key factor here is the direct evidence of an explosive event, which triggers specific protocols and resource allocation for handling the aftermath and ensuring public safety. In contrast, while suspicious packages, unexplainable noises, or fires may also require attention and could potentially lead to an explosive situation, they do not inherently confirm an explosion has occurred. Each of those scenarios would initiate different protocols, such as assessments, investigations, or fire response, rather than the direct and immediate classification required when there is a confirmed explosion.