What is one key action that should be taken before disposing of an unknown material?

Determining the origin of an unknown material is crucial before disposal because understanding where it came from can provide valuable insights into its properties, potential hazards, and proper disposal methods. Knowing the source may help identify whether the material is hazardous or non-hazardous and if there are specific regulations or requirements for its disposal. For example, materials from a chemical manufacturing facility may have different environmental regulations compared to household waste. By identifying the origin, one can also ascertain whether it is subject to specific handling procedures or risk assessments, ensuring a safe and compliant disposal process.

The other choices, while relevant actions in certain circumstances, do not provide the foundational information needed to assess the material adequately. For instance, assessing immediate danger focuses on current threats rather than understanding the material itself, consulting authorities may come after the initial assessment, and storing it safely could lead to prolonged risks if the material is indeed hazardous and needs immediate action.