PORTLAND – The competition included minigolf, hula hoop throwing and gathering small change, but emergency responders said the ninth annual Hazmat Team Challenge was an important test for teams wearing hot, bulky protective suits.

The Maine Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Environmental Protection were hosts for the event this week.

The competition was part of the state’s 19th annual Hazardous Materials Conference in Augusta, where hazmat responders get together with emergency planners.

The Portland Fire Department came in first place, followed by two teams from Fairchild Semiconductor in South Portland.