What should a diver do if they encounter hazardous materials inside a wreck?

If a diver encounters hazardous materials inside a wreck, the best course of action is to avoid contact and alert the dive team. This is essential for several reasons. Hazardous materials can pose significant health and safety risks, not only to the diver encountering them but also to the entire dive team and potentially the environment. By avoiding contact, the diver minimizes the risk of exposure to harmful substances, which could include toxic chemicals or biological hazards.

Moreover, alerting the dive team ensures that the situation is assessed by others who may have more experience or specific training in dealing with hazardous materials. This collaborative approach helps in efficiently managing the risks and determining the best response, whether that involves safely exiting the wreck, organizing a controlled response, or involving additional resources for proper handling.

In comparison, the other options suggest actions that could lead to increased danger. Collecting samples without proper training and equipment could expose the diver to hazardous elements. Attempting to remove materials poses not only personal risks but might disrupt a potentially fragile environment or violate regulations. Continuing to dive without concern is negligent and can have serious consequences for the health and safety of the diver and others involved in the dive operation.