What is the main mission of fire agencies?

The main mission of fire agencies is centered around fire prevention and the protection of property from fires. This foundational responsibility stems from the critical need to safeguard lives and minimize damage caused by fire incidents. Fire prevention strategies include public education on fire safety, enforcing fire codes, and conducting inspections to identify and mitigate potential fire hazards. By prioritizing prevention, fire agencies aim to reduce the occurrence and impact of fires before they happen, thereby protecting both individuals and communities from the devastating consequences of fire emergencies. While search and rescue operations, medical emergency response, and hazardous material management are important functions of fire agencies, they are often seen as secondary to the primary mission of preventing fires and protecting lives and property from fire-related threats.