What factors contribute to potential health risks for firefighters?

The correct choice highlights the importance of recognizing both exposure to toxic substances and extreme temperatures as significant health risks for firefighters. Firefighters operate in environments filled with hazardous materials such as smoke, chemicals, and particulates generated from burning structures and materials. Prolonged exposure to these toxic substances can lead to serious long-term health issues, including respiratory problems and cancers.

Furthermore, firefighting frequently involves working in extreme temperatures, whether from the heat of a fire or the conditions encountered during firefighting operations. High heat can lead to heat stress or heat exhaustion, severely impacting a firefighter's physical wellbeing and performance.

While physical exertion, inadequate training, poor equipment, and lack of safety protocols are also important considerations for firefighter safety, they do not encompass the broad spectrum of health risks associated with the direct environmental hazards that firefighters face on the scene. Addressing the exposure to toxic substances and temperature extremes is critical in ensuring the overall health and safety of firefighting personnel.