In defensive operations, what is the primary goal?

The primary goal in defensive operations is to protect exposures. This concept emphasizes the importance of safeguarding surrounding structures, environments, and individuals from the potential spread of fire or hazardous conditions. In defensive firefighting, the focus is on preventing further damage rather than directly engaging with the fire itself.

By prioritizing exposure protection, firefighters can effectively minimize the risk of fire spread to adjacent properties and preserve life and property. This approach is particularly critical when the fire is too intense or dangerous to fight offensively. Firefighters will establish defensive perimeters, deploy water streams to cool down adjacent structures, and use strategic tactics to enhance safety and effectiveness.

Understanding this goal helps firefighters prioritize their actions and allocate resources to manage firefighting operations in a way that mitigates risk and preserves life and property.