When deciding whether to use the first line as an interior attack or as exposure protection, what should be considered first?

The decision to use the first line for an interior attack or for exposure protection fundamentally hinges on the extent of the fire. Assessing the fire's size, intensity, and the areas affected is crucial, as it directly impacts both the safety of firefighters and the effectiveness of the firefighting strategy.

If the fire is extensive and poses an immediate threat to nearby structures or creating a scenario with high risk for civilian exposure, it may be more prudent to deploy the line in a way that prioritizes containment of exposures rather than entering the building. Conversely, if the fire is relatively contained and manageable, an interior attack can be more effectively initiated, focusing on extinguishing the fire at its source.

Other factors, like the availability of firefighters, wind direction, and time of the day, while important for overall strategy and conditions, come secondary to understanding the fire's extent, as it fundamentally dictates the appropriate tactical decision for resource allocation and operational safety.