What should be done first when arriving at a fire scene?

When arriving at a fire scene, the first action should be to evaluate scene safety. This step is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, the safety of the firefighters involved is of utmost importance. Assessing the scene helps identify potential hazards such as structural instability, the presence of hazardous materials, and other dangerous conditions that could threaten personnel.

By evaluating scene safety, firefighters can ensure that they are not entering an unsafe environment and can effectively plan their approach to the incident. This assessment may involve recognizing the layout of the area, determining the wind direction, checking for the potential presence of electrical hazards, and evaluating the behavior of the fire itself.

Once scene safety is established, other actions can follow, such as reporting to the Incident Commander, deploying equipment, or assessing the fire conditions. However, without first ensuring safety, no further actions can be effectively or safely executed. Therefore, emphasizing scene safety sets the foundation for all subsequent operations and maintains the well-being of the firefighting team.