In which order should firefighters search a five-story building with a fire in a third-floor apartment?

The most effective approach when searching a five-story building with a fire on the third floor is to search from the third floor upwards. This allows firefighters to address the immediate threat while also considering potential victims that may have become trapped above the fire. By searching the third floor first, they can assess the situation, check for any individuals that may need assistance, and determine the safest way to proceed.

After addressing the third floor, moving to the floors above — the fourth and fifth floors — is essential. This upward progression ensures that firefighters systematically cover all areas affected by the fire and account for any occupants who might have evacuated or remained trapped in upper floors. It’s crucial to prioritize the areas closest to the emergency before moving further away to ensure the best chance of rescue and fire containment.

This methodical search pattern minimizes the risks associated with smoke and fire spread while maximizing the opportunity for effective rescues and firefighting operations.