Basic Firefighter Written Practice Exam

If you are advancing an attack line into a structure and cannot see your feet, what should you do?

1. Stand up and move quickly

2. Back away slowly

3. Crawl

4. Signal for help

The correct answer is: Crawl

When advancing an attack line into a structure where visibility is compromised to the extent that you cannot see your feet, crawling is the best method to maintain safety and control. Crawling minimizes your profile, allowing you to navigate through potentially hazardous conditions while reducing the risk of injury from obstacles, low ceilings, or falling debris. Additionally, crawling allows you to feel the ground beneath you, which helps in maintaining orientation and finding stable footing. It helps maintain your awareness of the environment without rushing, thereby reducing the likelihood of encountering hazards that could arise from running or standing. Choosing to move quickly or standing up could lead to tripping or striking your head on low objects, putting you at increased risk. Backing away could also be risky as it may lead to losing situational awareness or encountering other dangers behind you. Similarly, signaling for help may not be practical in a scenario where you’re attempting to control a fire or prevent harm, as it could waste critical time when action may be needed to protect yourself and others. Thus, crawling is the recommended technique in situations with low visibility, ensuring a safer progression while advancing the attack line.