Accurate size-ups and clear information is incredibly important when it comes to fighting fires. However, all too often it seems that what we hear on the radio isn’t what we find when we arrive at the scene of an emergency.
For instance, the term “fully involved” is regularly misused. When we hear “the car is fully involved”, I would expect to find an intense fire bumper to bumper. What about you? Would you agree?
I recently responded as the officer of the first due engine to a reported structural fire. The fire was in a two story wood frame occupied multiple dwelling. Four apartments to one building, two upstairs and two down. On our way the report was “fully involved fire”. With that report, what would you expect to see upon arrival?
What we found was fire blowing out one window. A couch was burning and quickly extinguished with no flame impingement past the drywall.
Our tactics and strategy, our incident objectives, everything changes when we look at what is “reported” versus what is for real.
In the photo provided, the top image is much different than the bottom image. Which is “fully involved”? An easy example, I know.
When responding and assuming the responsibility of transmitting a Size-Up, don’t be blind to what you see. Be thorough, be accurate and remember that you are ‘painting a picture’ for the incoming units. Vital decisions will be made based on your report. Many people are counting on you.
For more information on size-up, please check out “5 Tips to Quick Size-Ups” from our friends at Firefighter Toolbox.
