What action should be taken when safeguarding a fire scene from onlookers?

Establishing a perimeter is the appropriate action to take when safeguarding a fire scene from onlookers. This measure is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures the safety of both the public and the emergency personnel on site by keeping unauthorized individuals at a safe distance from potential hazards, such as flames, smoke, and falling debris. A well-defined perimeter helps control access to the area and allows first responders to operate effectively without interference.

Furthermore, securing the scene protects vital evidence and allows investigators to carry out their work without distraction or contamination of the site. Establishing a perimeter also helps maintain privacy for victims and their families, demonstrating compassion in a potentially traumatic situation.

While calling for more officers could be necessary in certain cases to help manage the crowd, it does not directly address the immediate need for safety and control at the scene. Inviting public assistance may lead to confusion or distractions and is not a typical practice for securing a fire scene. Conducting interviews, while important for gathering information later in the process, is secondary to ensuring the area is safely managed and secured.