When a roof is sounded, what is a positive result indicating that the roof is probably safe?

When sounding a roof to assess its safety for fire operations, a positive result indicating that the roof is probably safe is characterized by a firm rebound and reassuring sound. This type of sound suggests that the structure is solid and capable of supporting the weight of personnel.

For instance, if a firefighter uses a tool to tap the roof and hears a strong, clear sound with a slight rebound, it indicates that the materials of the roof are intact and there are likely no significant voids or structural failures present. A firm sound typically means that the roof is constructed well and has not been compromised by fire or other factors.

In contrast, a nonbounce dead strike would not provide any feedback about the structural integrity, while a sharp vibration felt through the tool handle may suggest weakness or instability. The assertion that sounding is not a safe method is misleading since, when executed properly, sounding is a critical technique used by firefighters to gauge the condition of roofs and ensure their safety when performing operations.