What must be done when the gas or electrical service to a structure is turned off for firefighting operations?

Applying a lock-out tag is essential during firefighting operations when gas or electrical services are turned off to ensure the safety of the firefighters and others involved. This practice adds an additional safety measure by preventing accidental re-energization of those utilities, which could lead to dangerous situations such as electrical shock or gas leaks. The lock-out tag clearly indicates that those services have been intentionally disabled and should not be restored without proper coordination and authorization.

In emergency situations, communication with the utility companies and the proper documentation, such as noting the time of the service interruption, are critical. However, these actions do not provide the immediate physical safeguard that a lock-out tag does. The lock-out tag serves as a physical reminder and instruction to anyone approaching the area that certain services have been disabled, thereby protecting both the firefighting crew and any civilians who may be nearby.