What should firefighters do before entering a building for search operations?

Before entering a building for search operations, conducting a size-up and assessing the situation is crucial for firefighters. This process involves evaluating the structure, understanding the potential hazards, and determining the dynamics of any fire present. By performing a size-up, firefighters can recognize vital information such as the type of building, the fire's location, and whether occupants are still inside. This assessment informs their strategy for search and rescue efforts and helps ensure the safety of both the firefighters and any victims.

While gathering equipment, monitoring temperature, and establishing communication are important tasks, they should be based on the information and strategy formulated during the size-up. A thorough initial assessment sets the foundation for all subsequent actions, making it the priority before any entry can be safely executed.