Second Due with First Due Eyes

As a late arriving officer there are some things that need to be done before just heading inside for the sake of heading inside. As I always mention, follow your departments guidelines and assignments.

In particular, as second due there are some things that I like to specifically do in concert with my assignment. If my assignment is water supply, I ensure that that task is successfully completed. In addition to my assignment, here is a list of additional tasks that I like to complete or "check on" when I arrive after the first due. This can all be done as we make our way up to the building.

--Read the building and conditions. Is it different from the initial size up?
--What line is deployed from the first due? Where is going and does it look like conditions are improving?
--Is the first due crew inside without a line due to imminent rescue? If so, immediate action must be taken to protect the crew.
--Are there any new or unseen hazards not reported by the first due officer?
--Are ladder racks down and ready for deployment?
--Do conditions dictate that our assignment change from what is listed on the SOG? If so, this must be relayed to command and the interior crew. Calling the audible.

There are other tasks that you could add, but this list can be done quickly, without compromising your initial assignment. After recognizing any of these flags, a plan must be developed during training, not at the scene to take the appropriate actions. Communication is obviously key and the second due needs to listen closely to the first due crews to get a sense of how things are going. Be sure to notify command and/or the interior crews of any of the conditions or changes noted as you arrive and size the scene up.