What is defensive firefighting?

Defensive firefighting involves protecting exposures and preventing the spread of fire, rather than directly engaging with the flames. This strategy is particularly critical in scenarios where the fire is too large or out of control to fight directly without risking the lives of firefighters. By prioritizing the protection of adjacent structures, resources, and the environment, defensive firefighting seeks to minimize damage and safeguard lives.

This approach recognizes that sometimes the best action is to contain the fire's spread rather than attempting to extinguish it entirely, especially in situations where the fire may endanger firefighters or where resources are limited. The focus on prevention of fire spread ensures that despite the presence of an active fire, efforts are made to mitigate its impact on surrounding areas.

Other options may focus on direct suppression or damage control; however, they do not encompass the broader strategy and objectives inherent in defensive firefighting, which is fundamentally about protecting vulnerabilities rather than aggressive attack on the fire itself.