In the context of O-VEIS, what does the 'I' stand for?

In the context of O-VEIS, the 'I' stands for "Isolate." O-VEIS, which stands for Overhaul, Ventilation, Entry, Isolate, and Salvage, represents a tactical approach used in firefighting operations to ensure safety and efficiency. The concept emphasizes isolating the area of fire or danger to contain it, control the situation, and prevent the spread of smoke, heat, and flames.

Isolating involves assessing the fire scene and identifying specific areas or potential hazards that need to be secured. This step is critical in managing risks for both firefighters and civilians, as it creates a safer working environment and allows for more effective firefighting tactics to be applied. Proper isolation can also aid in the salvage process by protecting unaffected areas from damage.

Understanding the meaning of each component in O-VEIS helps firefighters remain organized and focused during emergency responses, ultimately enhancing operational effectiveness and safety.