The hand signal with the responder placing their hands across the throat indicates:

• A. vision problem
• B. air problems
• C. they are okay
• D. hazardous atmosphere

Answer: (B)

In hazmat signaling, breathing and air supply issues are communicated with a hand moving to the throat. When a responder places both hands across the neck, it clearly indicates an air problem—trouble breathing or a problem with the breathing apparatus. This prompt tells nearby teammates to stop what they’re doing, immediately check the SCBA or air supply, verify the regulator and gauge, and prepare to retreat to fresh air if needed or to assist the distressed person with a buddy change.

This signal isn’t about vision problems or about indicating that the person is okay, and it isn’t the cue for a hazardous atmosphere itself. Those situations have different cues or detector-based indications, so the throat-crossing gesture specifically flags air-related distress, guiding a rapid, safety-focused response.