What is one of the main tasks the ISO should accomplish during size up?

During the size-up process, one of the primary tasks of the Incident Safety Officer (ISO) is to determine if life is at immediate risk. This assessment is crucial as it focuses on the safety of all personnel involved in the incident response as well as any civilians who may be in the vicinity. By evaluating the situation for immediate threats to life, the ISO ensures that appropriate measures can be taken quickly, such as initiating evacuations, implementing rescue operations, or adjusting tactical operations to protect life.

This task is foundational because the safety of individuals is the highest priority during any incident response. If life is determined to be at risk, swift actions may be required, possibly influencing the overall strategy and operations at the scene. Managing risks effectively is central to the ISO’s role, making this assessment a vital part of the size-up process.