Which of the following is a vital safety practice for fire control workers on the job?

Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets and gloves is a critical safety practice for fire control workers. PPE is designed to protect individuals from hazards associated with firefighting activities, including heat, flames, and sharp objects. Helmets provide head protection from falling debris, while gloves protect hands from burns and cuts. Additionally, wearing the appropriate PPE helps enhance visibility and reduces the risk of injury in high-risk environments, which is essential for maintaining safety and operational effectiveness during fire suppression efforts. This focus on individual safety through proper gear is paramount in ensuring that fire control workers can perform their duties without compromising their well-being.

The other practices, while important in their own right, do not directly address the immediate risks faced by fire control workers in the same way that PPE does. For instance, arriving on time can contribute to operational effectiveness, but it does not mitigate safety risks during fire response. Similarly, maintaining equipment and communicating with the community are vital aspects of fire service operations, but they do not provide direct physical protection to workers engaged in hazardous firefighting conditions.