What is an important step to take when washing contamination from exterior vehicle surfaces?

Capturing the excess water runoff is crucial in the process of washing contamination from exterior vehicle surfaces, particularly in trauma and crime scene cleanup contexts. This step helps prevent any hazardous materials or contaminants from spreading to the environment or into the stormwater system, which can pose health risks or lead to further contamination.

By managing runoff effectively, you ensure that potentially harmful substances are contained and can be disposed of properly, following relevant environmental regulations and safety protocols. This practice not only protects public health and safety but also emphasizes a responsible approach to cleanup operations, acknowledging the importance of environmental stewardship.

Other options, such as using regular soap and water or rinsing with high pressure, do not specifically address the issue of runoff management and may not be effective or safe when dealing with contamination. Ignoring the runoff could lead to serious legal and environmental consequences.