When considering a building for a pre-incident plan, what is a key factor firefighters must ensure?

In the context of developing a pre-incident plan, ensuring both occupant and firefighter safety is paramount. This involves assessing the building's layout, understanding potential hazards, and identifying safe egress routes for occupants. Firefighters must consider how to effectively respond to emergencies while safeguarding the lives of those inside the building and their own safety during operations. A thorough understanding of how to protect occupants, whether through evacuation strategies or the implementation of fire protection systems, supports effective emergency response and reduces the risk of injury or fatalities.

While factors like renovation costs, proximity to water sources, and adherence to local building codes are important, they do not take precedence over the fundamental need to protect lives. A comprehensive approach to pre-incident planning must prioritize safety to prepare for various emergency scenarios effectively.