If an RIC has reached a downed firefighter in a hazardous area, what is the most critical question to answer?

When a Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) reaches a downed firefighter in a hazardous area, determining how quickly the victim can be moved to safety is the most critical question. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as downed firefighters are at high risk of further injury or death due to ongoing hazards, such as fire, smoke, or structural instability.

Assessing the speed at which the victim can be evacuated is essential for minimizing potential harm. Effective rescues depend on immediate action, and delays could lead to dire consequences for the injured firefighter. This question prioritizes the life of the victim and underlines the RIC's role in prompt intervention.

Although other questions, such as the duration of the victim's air supply or the likely outcome of their injuries, are important for subsequent decision-making and planning, they don't provide immediate actionable information that can facilitate a rescue. Analyzing additional resources is also less urgent in the moment of crisis when the primary focus should be on the swiftest and safest way to bring the downed firefighter to safety.