What is a size-up?

• A. A systematic process of gathering and processing information to evaluate the situation and create a plan
• B. A quick initial glance at the building
• C. A post-incident report
• D. An action plan drafted after arrival

Answer: (A)

Size-up is the systematic gathering and processing of information on the scene to understand what’s happening and to develop a plan to manage it. On arrival, you assess factors like building construction, occupancy, location and extent of the fire, life-safety risks, possible victims, exposures, water supply, access, and any hazards. You interpret that information to set priorities—life safety first, incident stabilization, property conservation, and scene safety—and to determine the initial strategy and needed resources. It isn’t just a quick look; it’s an ongoing, dynamic process that you repeat as conditions change, adjusting actions based on new findings. This distinguishes it from a post-incident report or a plan drafted after arrival, because size-up guides the immediate response and keeps operations aligned with the evolving scene.