What type of guidelines does the DOT provide regarding hazardous materials?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) focuses on ensuring the safe transportation of hazardous materials as part of its regulatory framework. The guidelines provided by the DOT specifically address various aspects of transporting hazardous materials, including packaging, labeling, and vehicle specifications to minimize risks during transit. These regulations are crucial because improper transportation of hazardous substances can lead to accidents, environmental damage, and health hazards.

The other choices, while related to hazardous materials, fall outside the primary scope of DOT guidelines. Regulations on the disposal of hazardous waste are generally governed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rather than the DOT. Strategies for land use planning typically involve local government regulations and zoning laws, separate from transportation safety. Public awareness programs for hazardous substances may be implemented by various organizations but are not a core function of the DOT concerning transportation safety. Therefore, the focus on safety regulations for transporting hazardous materials makes the second option the correct answer.