What is a secondary search?

What is a secondary search?

• A. A rapid, non-systematic check for victims
• B. A quick search for victims during firefighting entry
• C. A systematic search for victims after the fire is brought under control.
• D. A search for victims only during overhaul

Answer: (C)

Secondary search is a thorough, systematic sweep of the building for victims after you’ve knocked the fire down and hazards have been reduced. It follows the initial search you do while conditions are still changing and the fire is active, and it focuses on areas that might have been missed or hidden, such as closets, behind furniture, crawl spaces, basements, or voids in walls and ceilings. The goal is to confirm that no one is left inside and to recover anyone found before concluding operations. This timing and method help ensure safety for rescuers and completeness of the search, rather than trying to rush a check while the fire is still active or limited only to overhaul.