What is the third step to take before opening a hot door?

Taking up positions opposite of the hinges is the third step to take before opening a hot door because this action is critical for safety. When opening a door that could potentially lead to a fire, the hinges are the pivot point and positioning yourself opposite allows for better control and reduces the risk of fire or smoke escaping toward you when the door is opened.

Being positioned away from the hinges also helps shield you from any potential flashover or backdraft that may occur upon opening the door, as heat and flames may be pushing against it. This technique follows proper firefighting protocols, prioritizing the safety of the personnel involved.

In contrast, while readiness and supervision by having a backup crew, spraying water, and waiting for the fire to subside are considerations in firefighting, they do not directly address the immediate action and positioning required for safely opening a hot door.