What must an instructor do when entering and exiting a structure during an evolution?

When entering and exiting a structure during an evolution, taking a head count is crucial for ensuring accountability and safety. This practice helps confirm that all individuals who entered the structure are still accounted for before leaving, preventing potential situations where someone might be left behind unknowingly.

This step is integral to maintaining a safe training environment, as it allows instructors to promptly identify and address any missing participants. Ensuring that everyone is present and accounted for supports effective communication and enhances overall safety during training evolutions.

While checking equipment, notifying the safety officer, and ensuring all students are ready are important components of safety protocols, these actions do not specifically address the immediate need for accountability when entering and exiting a structure. Taking a head count reinforces the instructor's responsibility to monitor participant safety actively.