In the absence of sufficient manpower, which of the following should be prioritized according to firefighting principles?

Prioritizing rescue operations in situations where there is insufficient manpower aligns with fundamental firefighting principles centered on life safety. The primary mission of firefighting is to protect lives, and the urgency to find and assist any trapped or endangered individuals takes precedence over other tasks. By focusing on rescue operations, firefighters ensure that they are acting in the best interest of human life, minimizing losses, and providing potentially life-saving assistance.

Rescue operations involve locating and helping victims, often under extreme conditions. This goal necessitates quick decision-making and a strategy that may compromise other efforts like fire extinguishment or comprehensive risk assessment when resources are limited. While extinguishment of the fire, victim searches, and risk assessments are important components of firefighting, the immediacy of rescuing individuals in danger makes it paramount in scenarios with limited personnel. This approach reflects the core values of the fire service, prioritizing human life over property or equipment concerns.