When establishing a water supply, what is the first action that should be taken by firefighters?

Establishing a reliable water supply is crucial in firefighting operations, and the first action that should be taken is to check the hydrant for proper operation. This step ensures that the hydrant is functional and has adequate water pressure and flow capacity to meet the demands of firefighting efforts. By verifying the hydrant's operational status, firefighters can avoid wasting time and resources on a hydrant that might be malfunctioning or out of service, which could lead to a critical situation if water is needed urgently.

Positioning the fire engine near the water source and connecting the hose to the hydrant are important subsequent steps, but they rely on the initial confirmation that the hydrant is working correctly. Communicating needs to the incident commander is also vital during operations, but it comes into play once the firefighters are in a position to assess their water supply and relay any issues or requirements. Thus, checking the hydrant first supports effective and efficient firefighting operations.