What must be done before entering a confined space during an underground electrical vault fire?

Before entering a confined space, especially in a scenario like an underground electrical vault fire, it is crucial to ensure that the utilities, such as gas and electricity, have been secured by SDGE (San Diego Gas and Electric). This is vital to prevent any potential hazards such as electric shock, explosions, or toxic gas exposure.

Securing utilities means that power to the area is cut off, which significantly reduces the risk of further incidents while personnel are conducting their operations. Confined spaces pose unique hazards, and in the case of an electrical vault, the presence of live electrical equipment can lead to severe injury or death. Therefore, confirming that utilities are secured is a necessary step to ensure the safety of all personnel involved in the response effort.

While communicating with team leaders, waiting for fire control signals, and performing a risk assessment are important aspects of incident command and safety protocol, they do not directly address the immediate and critical need to secure utilities in the context of an underground electrical fire. This makes the assurance of utility security the most pressing action required before entering the confined space.