As fatigue increases, the risk of injury:

• A. decreases
• B. stays the same
• C. increases
• D. becomes unavoidable

Answer: (C)

Fatigue reduces both physical performance and mental sharpness, which raises the chance of injury. When tired, reaction time slows, balance and coordination decline, grip strength weakens, and fine motor control suffers. Judgment and situational awareness can blur, leading to errors in handling gear, moving through hazardous environments, or judging distances and heat exposure correctly. In firefighting scenarios, these effects translate to more slips, trips, strains, burns, and other injuries, especially as tasks become longer or conditions harsher. Fatigue is often worsened by heat and dehydration, creating a cycle that further elevates risk. The relationship is gradual and modifiable—rest, hydration, cooling, and proper pacing can reduce the rise in risk. So, the risk increases as fatigue increases.