What condition must be met for an engine company to continue a response according to the guidelines?

For an engine company to continue a response according to the guidelines, it is essential that the vehicle is in a safe condition to operate. This ensures that the fire apparatus can respond effectively and safely to the emergency. If the vehicle is not safe, it poses a risk not only to the crew but also to the public and other emergency responders. Safety checks typically include reviewing systems such as brakes, lights, steering, and any other critical operational components. If any of these systems are compromised, it may impair the vehicle's ability to respond quickly or effectively, potentially endangering lives and hindering the emergency response effort. Thus, ensuring the vehicle’s safe operating condition is paramount for operational readiness.