What should firefighters do with utilities during the RIT setup?

During the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) setup, turning off all utilities is a crucial safety measure to minimize hazards. When utilities such as gas, electricity, and water are left on, they can pose significant risks to both the firefighters and anyone inside a structure during a rescue operation. For example, live electricity can create the potential for electrocution, while gas leaks can lead to explosions or fires.

By taking the step to turn off all utilities, firefighters ensure that the environment is safer for their operations, allowing them to focus on the primary goal of rescue without the additional danger of hazardous utilities. This practice eliminates distractions and potential accidents, enabling a more effective and secure rescue effort.

Other options may overlook the importance of comprehensive safety in the RIT setup. For instance, leaving utilities on as a precaution or only disabling electricity could lead to unforeseen risks that could compromise the safety of the team and the personnel they are trying to rescue. Conducting a risk assessment first, while important in many contexts, may not be practical during RIT setup when immediate action is required to ensure safety. Therefore, turning off all utilities directly addresses the need for a controlled and safe environment during emergency operations.