Which word best fills in the blanks: Be ______ of your surroundings and try to ______ dangerous situations?

The selected word "cognizant" means being aware or knowledgeable about something, which is crucial in the context of being aware of one's surroundings. As a firefighter, being cognizant of your environment can help in assessing hazards, understanding the dynamics of a situation, and ensuring safety.

The second part of the answer, "mitigate," refers to the act of making something less severe or serious, which aligns perfectly with the goal of trying to reduce or lessen dangerous situations. In firefighting, this could involve taking proactive steps to control a fire or prevent it from spreading.

The combination of "cognizant" and "mitigate" emphasizes the importance of awareness and proactive measures in safety, making it the most fitting choice for effectively responding to potential dangers. This understanding is essential in the firefighting profession, where being alert and taking appropriate actions can significantly impact outcomes in emergency situations.