Which of the following describes the purpose of vertical ventilation during a fire response?

The purpose of vertical ventilation during a fire response is primarily to remove smoke, heat, and combustion products from the structure. When a fire occurs, these elements can build up and create dangerous conditions inside a building, significantly reducing visibility and increasing the risk of flashover or backdraft. By creating openings at higher levels of the structure, vertical ventilation helps to allow hot gases and smoke to escape, thereby improving conditions for both the occupants who may still be inside and for firefighters as they work to suppress the fire. This process not only enhances safety but also aids in the more effective management of the fire itself by helping to lower temperatures and improve visibility in the immediate area.

The other options, while they may be related to actions taken during a fire response, do not specifically align with the primary purpose of vertical ventilation.