What was the initial engine's assignment?

The initial engine's assignment being "Gear up and wait" indicates that the primary task at the outset is to ensure that the firefighter team is equipped with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools before proceeding further. This preparation is crucial for ensuring the safety of the firefighters as they approach a potentially hazardous situation. This waiting phase often involves assessing the scene, developing a strategy, and receiving further instructions from incident command while ensuring that all team members are ready to act quickly when needed.

Selecting this option highlights the importance of safety protocols and operational readiness in emergency response situations, as rushing into the building without adequate preparation could expose firefighters to unnecessary risks. The assignments that involve immediate entry or hose preparation come after this critical step.