What should be the first action of a RIC if a firefighter goes missing?

The correct response in this scenario is to notify command and activate RIC procedures. This is crucial because the safety and efficiency of any emergency response hinge on proper communication and coordination. By notifying command, the RIC ensures that all resources are efficiently managed and that command is fully aware of the situation, enabling a coordinated response.

Activating RIC procedures helps to implement a structured approach, typically detailed in the department's operational guidelines. It ensures that the responding crew has the necessary support, resources, and personnel to initiate a search effectively. This may include designating safety officers, deploying extra crews, or activating additional resources needed for the operation.

The other options, while relevant in the context of searching for a missing firefighter, are secondary and contingent upon the activation of RIC protocols. For instance, initiating a search and rescue operation without command's awareness could lead to uncoordinated efforts that may jeopardize both the missing firefighter's safety and the safety of the search teams. Similarly, surveying the immediate area and assessing the scene for additional hazards are important actions that fall within the search and rescue process but should be executed as part of the established RIC procedures. Without first notifying command, the overall effectiveness and safety of the operation may be compromised.