What is the best way to gather information about the size and location of a fire?

The best way to gather information about the size and location of a fire is through direct visual observation. This method allows firefighters to assess the situation immediately and accurately. Observing the fire firsthand provides vital details such as the fire's color, flame height, and spread, which help in determining the urgency and type of response required. Additionally, this approach gives firefighters the opportunity to evaluate the physical environment, including potential hazards, structural integrity, and access points for firefighting operations.

While thermal imaging, reading smoke, and reports from occupants can provide useful insights, they have limitations. For instance, thermal imaging can detect heat signatures but might not fully reveal the fire's extent or other critical factors like structural conditions. Reading smoke offers indications of fire behavior but may not provide precise information without visual confirmation. Reports from occupants can give valuable context or details about the fire's origin but are reliant on the occupants' knowledge and awareness, which can vary significantly. Thus, direct visual observation remains the most effective method for accurately assessing the size and location of a fire.