What should a firefighter do immediately upon arrival at the scene of a fire?

Upon arriving at the scene of a fire, a firefighter must first conduct a size-up and assess the situation. This critical step involves evaluating the environment, identifying potential hazards, determining the fire's location and intensity, and considering the safety of both firefighters and civilians. A thorough size-up allows the firefighter to establish an incident action plan and communicate effectively with the team and command staff.

By assessing the scene, firefighters can make informed decisions about resource allocation, evacuation needs, and firefighting tactics. This action is crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone involved, preventing further damage, and strategizing the most effective firefighting approach. Starting to extinguish the fire without a proper size-up could lead to dangerous situations or ineffective firefighting efforts.