What should be the operator’s first action before entering traffic?

Before entering traffic, it is crucial for the operator to assess the intersection for safety. This action involves evaluating the flow of traffic, observing signals, and anticipating the movements of other vehicles and pedestrians. By doing so, the operator ensures that they have a clear understanding of the environment and can make informed decisions to safely navigate through the intersection.

Assessing for safety helps to prevent potential collisions and allows the operator to anticipate hazards that may arise from other vehicles or conditions, such as visibility issues or distractions. Engaging in this thorough assessment is essential, particularly for emergency vehicle operators who may need to maneuver quickly in high-stress situations.

The other choices do not prioritize safety in the same way. Making a quick judgment without careful assessment could lead to accidents. Checking the fuel gauge is important for operational readiness, but it is not relevant to immediate safety in traffic. Lastly, looking at the rearview mirror only addresses one aspect of situational awareness and neglects the broader context of what's happening at the intersection. Therefore, assessing the intersection for safety is the foundational first step in safe traffic entry.