Before overhaul operations begin, what should you look for?

Before overhaul operations begin, it is crucial to look for evidence of what caused the fire. Understanding the cause of the fire is essential for several reasons. First, identifying the origin of the fire helps ensure that the fire has been completely extinguished and that there are no remaining hotspots that could reignite. Second, determining the cause can provide valuable information for prevention efforts, allowing the department and community to address potential hazards and avoid similar incidents in the future.

Additionally, knowing the cause is important for legal and insurance purposes, as it may affect investigations and claims. While structural damage and hazardous materials are vital considerations during fire operations, and evidence of fire spread is important for assessing the situation, the primary focus before overhaul is to gather information on the fire's origin. Gathering this evidence helps inform the crew's approach to ensuring the area is safe and that all necessary measures have been taken to address the situation comprehensively.