If you identify an unsecured building and it is unattended, what should be done first?

If you identify an unsecured building and it is unattended, what should be done first?

• A. Call for back up then clear building (if unattended)
• B. Secure the area yourself
• C. Request building access from the owner
• D. Notify the media

Answer: (A)

When you encounter an unsecured, unattended building, safety and control of the scene come first. The correct approach is to call for back up to ensure you have support and backup if a threat or hazard arises, then clear the building to verify it’s empty and to restrict access. This sequence protects you and others and sets up a controlled entry if needed. Securing the area yourself is risky because you’d be acting without adequate support. Requesting building access from the owner is not timely in an emergency and may not be feasible. Notifying the media has no bearing on safety or the immediate response.

When you encounter an unsecured, unattended building, safety and control of the scene come first. The correct approach is to call for back up to ensure you have support and backup if a threat or hazard arises, then clear the building to verify it’s empty and to restrict access. This sequence protects you and others and sets up a controlled entry if needed.

Securing the area yourself is risky because you’d be acting without adequate support. Requesting building access from the owner is not timely in an emergency and may not be feasible. Notifying the media has no bearing on safety or the immediate response.