When should the company officer inspect units for readiness to return to service during demobilization?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all units are fully prepared and operational before they leave the incident scene and return to service. Inspecting units for readiness prior to departing allows the company officer to identify any deficiencies, damage, or equipment that may need maintenance or replacement while everything is still fresh from the incident. This proactive approach helps to ensure that apparatus and equipment are in optimal condition for future responses, enhancing overall safety and effectiveness.

Demobilizing without completing these inspections could lead to undetected issues that may arise later, potentially compromising the safety and operational readiness of the units when they are needed again. Conducting this inspection during the operational briefing would not be timely enough, as the focus at that point is typically on strategies and assignments for the incident. After accounting for personnel or completing incident reports are also subsequent priorities that don’t address the immediate need to ensure equipment readiness while still on site.