What should firefighters consider before engaging in fire suppression activities?

Firefighters should prioritize weather conditions before engaging in fire suppression activities because these conditions significantly impact both the safety and effectiveness of their operations. Factors such as wind speed and direction can influence how a fire spreads, potentially putting firefighters at greater risk or complicating suppression efforts. High temperatures and low humidity can also increase fire intensity and make it harder to control, while rain or moisture can positively affect fire behavior by slowing its spread.

Understanding weather conditions helps firefighters to strategic positioning, resource allocation, and determining the best tactics to utilize during suppression efforts. This knowledge allows them to minimize risks to themselves and to civilians while maximizing the effectiveness of their operations. In contrast, while cost of equipment, time of day, and property ownership are relevant considerations, they do not have the same immediate and critical impact on the personnel's safety and operational efficiency during a fire response.