Ideally, when should overhaul operations begin?

Overhaul operations are a crucial phase of firefighting and should ideally begin after fire investigators have examined the scene. This is important because overhaul involves searching for hidden fires or smoldering hot spots that could reignite, and it often requires moving debris or dismantling structural components. If overhaul begins before fire investigators have had a chance to examine the scene, it may unintentionally disturb evidence related to the cause and origin of the fire. Investigators need to assess the area as it stands to gather critical information, which informs their conclusions. Starting overhaul after this inspection helps preserve the integrity of the investigation while ensuring safety and thoroughness in mitigating the risk of fire re-ignition.