What should firefighters do if they become trapped inside a structure?

When firefighters find themselves trapped inside a structure, activating the emergency alert system and communicating their location is crucial. This action ensures that rescuers are aware of their situation and can deploy resources effectively to locate and assist them. Communication during such emergencies is essential for coordinating rescue efforts and providing information about the trapped individuals' status and immediate needs.

Looking for an exit may be a natural instinct, but it could lead firefighters into more dangerous areas if they do not have clear visibility of the environment. Waiting for rescue without alerting others could prevent fellow firefighters or incident command from being able to assist in a timely manner. Attempting to break a window may pose additional risks such as falling glass or creating more exposure to the elements inside, further complicating their current situation. Therefore, the focus on alerting emergency systems and providing location information is the most effective and safest action in such emergencies.