Why should personnel be cautious of wing structures during an aircraft incident?

Personnel should be cautious of wing structures during an aircraft incident primarily because these structures may collapse without warning. Wing structures are critical components that support the overall integrity of the aircraft. In the event of an incident, they could sustain damage that might not be immediately visible. This damage can lead to sudden structural failure, posing a significant risk to personnel nearby. Therefore, awareness and caution around these areas is essential to ensure safety during an incident response, as unexpected collapses can cause injury or impede rescue operations.

Other factors like visibility, flammability, and overheating are relevant aspects of aircraft safety; however, the immediate concern during an active incident is ensuring that personnel are not in harm's way from the risk of unintended structural failures. Understanding the potential for collapse helps responders take the necessary precautions to maintain a safe distance from compromised wing sections.