When conducting a building inspection or pre-incident survey, where should you begin?

Beginning a building inspection or pre-incident survey on the exterior is important for several reasons. First, starting from the outside allows responders to assess the overall condition and layout of the building, including potential hazards that may not be visible from the inside, such as nearby dangers or access issues. This includes evaluating the exterior structure, the presence of any hazards like overhead power lines, and understanding the flow of traffic and potential escape routes in the event of an emergency.

Moreover, inspecting the exterior helps in identifying points of entry for firefighting operations and assessing the management of utilities that may impact safety, such as gas and electrical lines. It also facilitates a better understanding of the building’s architecture and surrounding environment, all of which are crucial for an effective response in the event of an emergency.

This foundational knowledge gained from an exterior check provides valuable context for subsequent inspections of the interior, basement, or roof areas, where specific hazards and structural elements can be evaluated in more detail. Starting from the outside ensures a comprehensive and systematic approach to the inspection process.