Basic Firefighter Written Practice Exam

What should you do with a small and valuable item found during salvage or overhaul?

1. Keep it for yourself

2. Give it to officer/command

3. Throw it away

4. Hand it to a fellow firefighter

The correct answer is: Give it to officer/command

When a small and valuable item is found during salvage or overhaul, the appropriate action is to give it to an officer or command. This procedure is crucial for several reasons. First, it helps maintain a clear chain of custody for the item, which is essential for accountability and to honor the ownership of the item. By reporting and handing it over to an officer, it can be documented and returned to its rightful owner, if applicable. Additionally, proper protocols dictate that all found items should be managed through the appropriate department channels to avoid any misappropriation or disputes. This keeps the integrity of the firefighting team intact and ensures that all personnel act in a professional manner. The other choices, such as keeping the item for personal gain, discarding it, or handing it to a fellow firefighter, do not adhere to standard operating procedures and can lead to ethical and legal issues.