What should a firefighter do if controls for identified hazards are not in place during the decision step?

When a firefighter encounters a situation where controls for identified hazards are not in place, the appropriate course of action is to reassess the situation. This is crucial because assessing the current environment and any risks allows the firefighter to gather necessary information and consider alternative tactics that could mitigate the hazards.

Reassessing the situation can lead to a better understanding of the dynamics at play, facilitating informed decision-making that prioritizes safety. This step is vital in high-risk scenarios like wildland-urban interfacing, where factors can change rapidly, and new hazards may emerge.

Choosing to proceed with current tactics without reassessment could expose individuals to unnecessary danger. Calling for reinforcements, while potentially useful in many circumstances, would not address the immediate hazard assessment required. Ignoring the hazards poses a significant risk, potentially leading to dangerous consequences for both firefighters and civilians. Therefore, reassessment ensures that safety remains the top priority and necessary adjustments can be made.