What is the primary objective of firefighting operations during an emergency incident?

The primary objective of firefighting operations during an emergency incident is to preserve life. This focus is rooted in the core mission of fire services, which prioritizes saving individuals from danger, whether they're inside a burning structure, trapped in a vehicle, or experiencing a medical emergency as a result of a fire. Firefighters are trained to first assess and evacuate victims, employing tactics that minimize risk to both the civilians and themselves.

While protecting property, controlling hazards, and extinguishing fires are crucial components of firefighting efforts, they are secondary to the imperative of ensuring the safety and survival of people. The overall strategy in emergency response is to create a safe environment, ultimately leading to effective property protection and hazard control, which follow the life preservation action.