In a defensive mode, what should aerial apparatus be positioned for?

In a defensive mode, aerial apparatus should be positioned for elevated master stream operation. This is critical because defensive operations focus on protecting the lives of firefighters while simultaneously controlling the fire, especially when the situation presents high risks to personnel and civilians.

Elevated master stream devices, such as aerial ladders or platforms equipped with large-diameter hoses, allow firefighters to apply water from a safe distance, effectively combating the fire while minimizing exposure to the hazards on the ground. This approach helps to keep both firefighters and nearby civilians safe as it provides the necessary firefighting capabilities without direct engagement with the dangerous environment.

While search and rescue operations, evacuation of civilians, and emergency medical services are vital components of firefighting and emergency response, they typically occur in an offensive strategy where firefighters may enter the structure or engage directly with the situation. In defensive mode, the priority shifts toward controlling the fire and protecting life and property with the use of aerial master streams.