Final answer:
The presence of animals near the scene is not a sign that you may be dealing with hazardous material, while signs like dead grass, discolored pavement, and visible vapors or puddles can indicate potential hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
Clues that you may be dealing with a hazardous material include a variety of signs, such as dead grass, discolored pavement, and visible vapors or puddles. These signs can indicate that a chemical spill or leak has occurred, potentially posing a risk to the environment and human health. Not all indicators are signs of hazardous material presence; for instance, animals near the scene do not necessarily suggest the presence of hazardous materials and may be found in various environments without implying danger.
In an educational setting like a laboratory, it is vital to follow safety protocols such as immediately calling your teacher in case of chemical spills and carefully disposing of chemicals as instructed, especially ones that can emit toxic fumes or are flammable. Substances like formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and various waste products can be harmful if proper precautions are not taken.