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The first course of action upon observing a sudden change in fire conditions is to notify command of the changes observed. This step is crucial as it ensures that all personnel involved are aware of the new hazards or challenges that may arise as conditions shift. By alerting command, incident management can evaluate the situation, assess risks, and make informed decisions about resource allocation, safety measures, and incident strategy.
This action prioritizes communication and situational awareness, which are fundamental for maintaining safety and operational effectiveness during emergency operations. Effective command and control rely on accurate and timely information, and notifying command facilitates coordinated responses that can adapt to evolving fire conditions.
In comparison, ignoring the changes could lead to dangerous situations and compromise the safety of the crew and others involved. Evacuating the area prematurely may not be warranted without first assessing the situation and consulting with command, and attempting to fight the fire without notifying anyone could increase the risk to responders due to unrecognized changes in fire behavior.