How does an officer conduct a risk assessment during incident response?

An officer conducts a risk assessment during incident response by analyzing potential hazards and evaluating the risks they pose to personnel and operations. This process involves identifying various factors at the incident scene, such as physical hazards, environmental risks, and any operational issues that could affect the safety and effectiveness of the response team.

By evaluating these risks, the officer can make informed decisions about resource allocation, establish safety protocols, and devise strategies to mitigate identified hazards. This systematic approach ensures that all potential dangers are considered, allowing for a well-coordinated response that prioritizes the safety of both responders and civilians.

While surveying the incident area for bystanders is important for ensuring their safety, it is just one aspect of the broader risk assessment process. Reviewing past incident reports may provide valuable insights but does not directly assess the current risks present at the scene. Coordinating with public relations teams plays a significant role in communication but does not pertain to the risk assessment itself. Thus, option B, focusing specifically on the analysis of potential hazards and their associated risks, is the most comprehensive and accurate approach to conducting a risk assessment during an incident response.