What should an operator ensure regarding lights when shooting on location?

When shooting on location, an operator must ensure that the lights have cooled down. This is critical for safety reasons, as lights, especially incandescent or high-intensity lights, can reach extremely high temperatures during use. If the lights are touched or moved immediately after being switched off, there is a risk of burns or other injuries. Ensuring that the lights have cooled down not only protects the crew but also prevents potential damage to the lights themselves and the surrounding environment.

While the other considerations, such as the design of the lights for the specific setting, correct aiming, and proper positioning, are also important for achieving optimal lighting in a scene, neglecting to confirm that the lights have cooled poses a direct safety hazard that must be prioritized on any shoot.