What should be the firefighters' approach when sufficient personnel are available to perform both rescue and extinguishment?

The best approach for firefighters when they have sufficient personnel to perform both rescue and extinguishment is to coordinate the fire attack. This allows for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the immediate threats posed by the fire while simultaneously prioritizing the safety of any trapped individuals. By coordinating efforts, teams can systematically manage their resources to ensure that both operations are carried out effectively.

In situations where adequate personnel are available, splitting teams could lead to a lack of cohesion and communication, which can compromise both the rescue and fire suppression efforts. Focusing only on extinguishment may neglect the critical task of saving lives, which should always be a priority in firefighting scenarios. Conversely, prioritizing rescue only might leave the fire unchecked, putting both victims and responding firefighters at risk. Therefore, coordination maximizes the effectiveness of the firefighting operation while ensuring the safety of all involved.