What should you ensure about your crew's safety before opening a hot door?

Before opening a hot door, it is crucial to ensure that everyone stands clear of the door or the path of the door swing. This action is important because hot doors may indicate the presence of fire or severe heat on the other side, which can result in flames, smoke, or superheated gases suddenly escaping when the door is opened. If crew members are standing too close or directly in the path of the door, they risk severe burns, smoke inhalation, or being struck by the door itself as it swings open. Maintaining a safe distance allows for a quicker reaction to any hazards that may be revealed when the door is opened, enhancing overall crew safety during a potentially dangerous situation.

The options that suggest approaching the door closely or using fire extinguishers come with risks if the fire situation is not immediately assessed first. Ordering evacuation might not be the best first step if the crew simply needs to be kept at a safe distance while assessing the situation behind the door. Always keeping the safety protocol of standing clear helps in making a safe and informed decision about how to proceed.