What is the primary purpose of overhaul after a fire and what activity is common during overhaul?

• A. To locate and extinguish hidden embers and prevent rekindling; common activity is checking for hidden fires in walls, ceilings, and void spaces.
• B. To improve ventilation and clear smoke.
• C. To search for gas leaks.
• D. To remove debris.

Answer: (C)

Overhaul is about making sure the fire is truly out by finding and extinguishing hidden embers that could rekindle. The main activity during overhaul is a thorough search of concealed spaces—behind walls, inside ceilings, and other voids—for hot spots, opening up areas as needed, and putting out any remaining flames. This prevents rekindling after the visible fire is out.

Ventilation or smoke clearance often occurs during or after suppression but isn’t the primary goal of overhaul. Checking for gas leaks is a safety consideration, but the core purpose of overhaul is to eliminate hidden fire and hot spots. Debris removal happens as part of site recovery, but it isn’t the primary focus of overhaul either.