What is the primary mission of the fire service?

The primary mission of the fire service is to save lives and protect property. This encompasses a broad range of responsibilities that firefighters undertake in emergency situations. The focus on life safety reflects the commitment to preventing loss of life and minimizing injuries, whether in fire situations or other emergencies. Protecting property involves not only extinguishing fires but also taking measures to prevent damage to structures and natural resources.

In addition to these core objectives, fire service professionals are trained to respond to a variety of emergencies, which can include medical incidents, hazardous materials spills, and other situations where public safety is at risk. The mission is rooted in community service, aiming to keep both individuals and their homes safe. This overarching goal of life safety and property protection drives the training, policies, and conduct of the fire service, informing their responses and priorities during emergency operations.