Where should the pre-incident survey begin?

• A. Outside
• B. Inside
• C. In the central plaza
• D. In the attic

Answer: (C)

Begin outside. The pre-incident survey relies on exterior size-up to quickly establish a safe and effective plan: you assess the building’s location and access, exterior hazards, construction type, occupancy, number and placement of doors and windows, hydrants and water sources, and potential exposure areas. This outside assessment helps you determine the safest entry routes, where to position units, and what conditions to expect as you move to the interior. Only after you have a solid exterior picture do you move inside for interior reconnaissance, because interior conditions can be deceptive and dangerous without that context. Starting in an interior space, or in a location like the central plaza or attic, skips essential exterior context and unnecessarily increases risk.