Final answer:
Factors to consider before choosing to fight a fire include wind direction, with a preference for being windward, and the dryness of the season which is conducive for attacking fires. Quick and strategic responses based on fire intensity and situational circumstances are also essential.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before choosing to fight a fire, several factors must be considered to ensure the safety of everyone involved and the effectiveness of firefighting efforts. One crucial factor to consider is wind direction, as attacking a fire from the leeward side can be hazardous due to the potential for rapid spread of flames towards that area. Thus, it is advisable to be on the windward side when starting or fighting a fire. Understanding the seasons and weather conditions is also vital, particularly the decision to attack with fire should be made when the weather is very dry and on special days when there is a likelihood of rising winds, which can influence the behavior of the fire. Additionally, when a fire breaks out, responding quickly and strategically based on the fire's intensity and the enemy's reactions is important for decisiveness in firefighting.