What is the priority for firefighters when managing incident scenes?

The priority for firefighters when managing incident scenes is to ensure the safety of victims and civilians. This reflects the fundamental responsibility of firefighters to protect life, which is paramount in any emergency situation. By focusing on the safety of individuals affected by the incident, firefighters can implement rescue operations, provide medical assistance, and assess the situation to prevent further harm.

In addition to this primary focus, ensuring safety allows firefighters to establish a controlled environment in which they can carry out their operations effectively. Once the safety of individuals is confirmed, they can then address additional concerns such as securing the scene, preserving evidence for investigations, managing resources, and minimizing property damage. However, the foundational goal of any firefighting operation is to safeguard human lives.