What must be done before entering a structure to ensure safety?

Conducting a thorough size-up is the critical first step before entering a structure to ensure safety. This process involves evaluating the scene carefully for various factors that may impact operations, such as the structure's condition, potential hazards, and the presence of occupants. A thorough size-up helps firefighters to identify risks, determine the best approach to the fire, and make informed decisions about tactics and resource allocation.

Through size-up, firefighters can assess smoke conditions, flame behavior, and any signs of structural instability. It also allows for the identification of escape routes for the team and possible areas where victims might be located. This comprehensive assessment is essential in developing a strategy that prioritizes the safety of both firefighters and civilians.

While assessing weather conditions, waiting for backup, or checking the news might be relevant in certain situations, none of these actions replace the immediate necessity of conducting a size-up. Size-up synthesizes all relevant information needed to make safe operational decisions at the incident scene.