What must Firefighter Dodson do before exiting the scene?

The correct step for Firefighter Dodson before exiting the scene is to inform his company officer or incident commander. This action is crucial for several reasons. Communication with the command structure ensures that all personnel are accounted for, operations are effectively coordinated, and safety measures are upheld.

By notifying the officer or commander, Dodson contributes to situational awareness, allowing those in charge to make informed decisions about the next steps and to maintain the flow of information to all team members. This is essential in emergency response situations where every piece of information can impact the safety and efficiency of the operation.

While notifying the police, communicating with his team, or waiting for a signal might seem important, they do not replace the need for direct communication with the officer in charge. The chain of command is structured to maintain operational effectiveness, and adherence to this structure is vital for the safety of all firefighting personnel on the scene.