What should be done if communications fail between the entry team and the RCS?

• A. The operation should be halted, an alternate communication method established, and rescue readiness maintained until contact is restored.
• B. Operations should continue with reduced speed.
• C. A supervisor should be notified but no immediate action taken.
• D. The team should evacuate immediately without plan.

Answer: (A)

Reliable coordination between the entry team and the RCS is essential for safe entry operations. When that link fails, you cannot verify the team’s status or issue/receive abort criteria, so continuing would risk uncoordinated actions in a high-risk environment. The safest approach is to halt the operation, switch to an alternate communication method that both sides can reliably use, and maintain rescue readiness so responders can act immediately if a problem develops while contact is being reestablished. Proceeding at reduced speed still leaves crucial guidance and abort capability uncertain. Merely notifying a supervisor without taking action doesn’t restore control, and evacuating without a plan could create chaos and leave safety and rescue without a prepared path.