In this week’s True Grit Nugget, the focus is on the importance of completing a thorough 360-degree size-up. Learn how taking the time to evaluate all sides of a structure can reveal critical hazards, changing conditions, and access points that may impact fireground operations and tactical decisions.

This training took place at the Colorado State Fire Fighters Association 2026 Fire College in Aurora, Colorado.

VIDEO TRANSCRIPTION:

 Have a common sense approach. What are we really looking for on that 360? We’re looking for location, extent of the fire, where it is, what it’s doing. We’re sizing up the building as far as small, medium, or large. Is there a basement? And where is our best way of that initial ingress and then egress, and then paint that picture.

So that’s what I’m looking for on a size-up.

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