Fireground Reconnaissance

What Is Fireground Reconnaissance?

Fireground reconnaissance (recon) is the continuous tactical size-up performed by company officers and dedicated recon units using visual inspection, thermal imaging, and atmospheric monitoring to assess structural stability, fire location, extension paths, and occupant locations.

Why Fireground Reconnaissance Matters on the Fireground

Operating blindly inside a complex structure increases the risk of stepping into open elevator shafts, advancing under uncooled attic fires, or missing hidden fire spread. Reconnaissance provides real-time intelligence to refine tactical plans.

Relevant NFPA Standards

• NFPA 1010: Standard on Professional Qualifications for Firefighters
• NFPA 1550: Standard for Emergency Responder Health and Safety

Field Procedures & Tactical Steps

1. Deploy thermal imaging cameras (TIC) to scan structural framing, ceiling temperatures, and hidden fire pockets.
2. Perform a 360-degree exterior walk-around to identify building construction type, basement access, and utility drops.
3. Check void spaces, cocklofts, and pipe chases for unseen lateral or vertical fire extension.
4. Report recon findings (fire location, structural hazards, victim locations) to Incident Command via CAN report.
5. Mark searched areas and secondary egress routes clearly for following suppression and rescue crews.

Common Context & Application

Executed during initial arrival, prior to interior entry, and continuously by search/truck companies operating above or below the fire floor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fireground Reconnaissance