Which of the following lists the exterior hazards you must identify before advancing lines or ladders?

• A. Downed power lines; gas meters or lines; and unstable ground or debris.
• B. Downed power lines; high-voltage transformers; and flooded basement.
• C. Unsecured ladders; loose nails; and loose shingles.
• D. Active fire in the structure; trapped occupants; and collapse warning signs.

Answer: (B)

When planning to advance lines or place a ladder, the first safety focus is identifying exterior electrical hazards you might encounter on the outside of a structure. Downed power lines and high‑voltage transformers are direct, external electrical risks that can cause serious shock or arc incidents if touched or if electricity is conducted through water or metal around the exterior. That makes them the most critical items to spot before you move into position.

The third hazard listed—flooded basement—signals that water-related hazards can exist in or near the entry, and it’s a reminder that electricity and water hazards often intersect as you move from outside to inside. While the basement itself is interior, recognizing water presence can influence how you approach the exterior doorway and any exterior electrical sources.

Other options mix hazards that aren’t as directly tied to the exterior pre-entry risk for advancing lines or ladders. For example, unsecured ladders or loose materials are site-setup concerns, and active interior fire or collapse signs are primarily interior or structural indicators. The emphasis here is on exterior electrical hazards you must assess before entering or lifting lines or ladders.