Which of the following is a common hazard firefighters face on the job?

High temperatures and smoke inhalation represent significant hazards that firefighters frequently encounter during their duties. Firefighters operate in environments where fires produce extreme heat, leading to the possibility of burns and heat-related illnesses. The ability to withstand and manage high temperatures is crucial; however, exposure to intense heat is not the only danger they face.

Smoke inhalation is another critical risk; smoke from burning materials contains toxic gases such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and various other harmful substances that can impair breathing and lead to serious respiratory issues. Firefighters are trained to recognize these dangers and utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) like self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to mitigate these risks.

In contrast, the other options presented do not accurately represent common or acceptable situations that firefighters would typically face. Firefighters are always equipped with the necessary PPE; operating without it would not be standard practice due to the inherent dangers of firefighting. While communication issues can arise, being stranded without communication is not a routine situation for firefighters, as they often work in teams with established channels of communication. Carrying excessive water is not a practical concern, as firefighters must carefully manage their equipment for effective response rather than face a risk associated with water load.