Size-Up the Nature and Magnitude

We will start size-up by looking at the first two considerations:

  • Size-up the nature and magnitude of the incident
  • Determine the hazards and safety concerns

Nature and magnitude refer to your assessment of what kind of incident you face. This can include the type of incident and the size and complexity of the event.

What do you assess is the nature of this incident?

  • A Fire event because we are dealing with a vehicle fire, a potential structural fire, and injured personnel
  • A Medical event because we are dealing with injured and potentially dead personnel
  • A Law Enforcement event because there is a requirement for scene and traffic control and the possibility of a crime scene
  • A Public Infrastructure event due to the potential for downed power lines, water pipes, and potential presence of gas from damaged utilities
Photo 1 Fire hose spraying fire. Photo 2 Responders helping patient on stretcher. Photo 3 Police officer at barricade.  Photo 4 Emergency management responder.