What key factor should be assessed to address potential environmental hazards?

Assessing the presence of chemical storage facilities is crucial when addressing potential environmental hazards because these facilities may contain hazardous materials that, if improperly managed or involved in an incident, could have significant negative impacts on the environment and public health. Understanding their location, the types of chemicals stored, and the potential for leaks or spills allows fire department supervisors to implement appropriate safety measures, develop emergency response plans, and ensure compliance with regulations designed to protect both the community and the environment.

Other factors like cost of mitigation measures, local wildlife populations, and the risk of urban development, while important in their own contexts, do not directly address the immediate and tangible risks posed by the presence of chemical storage facilities, which can lead to catastrophic environmental incidents if not properly managed.