What obstacles might the first-arriving engine company encounter?

The first-arriving engine company often encounters various physical obstacles when responding to an emergency. Gates or fences can significantly hinder access to the fire scene, especially in residential areas or industrial complexes where these barriers are common. If the engine company cannot easily maneuver past these obstacles, it may delay their response time and impede quick access to the fire, potentially allowing the situation to escalate.

While fire hydrants, traffic signals, and power lines can also pose challenges, they typically do not obstruct entrance to a property as directly as gates or fences do. Fire hydrants are usually in public access areas, and traffic signals can be navigated with proper emergency vehicle protocols. Power lines, while dangerous, are generally a concern for the safety of firefighters and equipment rather than a barrier to getting to the scene. Thus, the presence of gates or fences is a more significant immediate obstacle for the first-arriving engine company.