Ideally, when should overhaul operations begin?

Overhaul operations are critical in the firefighting process, involving the careful examination and ensuring that the fire has been completely extinguished, as well as searching for any hidden fires or hot spots that may reignite. The correct timing for initiating overhaul is ideally after fire investigators have had the opportunity to examine the scene.

This timing is important because fire investigators need to assess the situation to determine the cause and origin of the fire. If overhaul operations begin prematurely, it could disturb evidence needed for the investigation, potentially leading to a misunderstanding of how the fire started or progressed. By waiting for investigators to complete their work, firefighters ensure that the scene is preserved for inquiry and that potential legal implications are addressed appropriately.

In contrast, beginning overhaul immediately after fire suppression could interfere with investigative efforts, while starting during the initial attack might compromise both the safety of firefighters and the integrity of evidence at the scene. Thus, prioritizing the investigation before overhaul ensures a more comprehensive approach to both fire suppression and investigation adherence.