Where should you start the search on the fire floor?

• A. In the farthest rooms
• B. The stairwell landing
• C. As close to the fire as possible
• D. On the roof

Answer: (C)

Start near the source of the fire. In a structure fire, the most urgent danger and the highest chance that someone is trapped are right where the flames and smoke are strongest, so beginning your search as close to the fire as possible lets you locate occupants quickly and assess conditions before they deteriorate further. Sweeping outward from that vicinity helps you identify victims early and establish a safe route for extraction as you move through the space. Starting in far rooms, at the stairwell landing, or on the roof would delay locating people and expose you to worsening heat and smoke without improving your ability to rescue them. Use a systematic sweep from the doorway toward the fire, staying aware of heat, visibility, and your teammates.