The first step in a search is to conduct a sizeup of the building to determine if the structure has light, moderate, or heavy damage. During this sizeup process, you:

• Gather more information about occupancy and danger (how many people may be inside, hazardous materials that may be present, etc.)
• Correct outside problems (turn off gas if there is a leak, etc.)
• Determine if you'll enter the building
• Determine a plan of action for the search, if it's safe to enter the building