What is the primary risk associated with chlorine gas in emergency situations?

• A. It can cause freezing
• B. It can explode
• C. It can support combustion
• D. It can lead to asphyxiation

Answer: (C)

The primary risk associated with chlorine gas in emergency situations is that it can lead to asphyxiation. Chlorine is a toxic gas that can displace oxygen in the air, leading to respiratory issues and potentially suffocation if inhaled in sufficient quantities. This characteristic makes it particularly dangerous in confined spaces or during leaks, as it can cause individuals to experience difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness.

Chlorine gas irritates the respiratory tract, and high concentrations can result in serious health effects, including lung damage. Therefore, in emergency scenarios involving chlorine, the most pressing concern is ensuring adequate ventilation and providing immediate assistance to those affected by exposure.

While chlorine gas does have other risks, such as potential contributions to combustion in certain limits or even certain physical dangers, the immediate threat of asphyxiation is the most critical factor to address in emergency response situations.