What is a firefighter's main goal during a confined-space incident?

In a confined-space incident, a firefighter's main goal is to secure the scene to ensure the safety of both rescuers and any victims involved. This involves establishing a safe perimeter, preventing unauthorized personnel from entering the area, and ensuring that all potential hazards are identified and managed. Securing the scene allows for a coordinated response while minimizing risks associated with hazards such as toxic atmospheres, instability, or unforeseen dangers that can arise in confined spaces.

While locating a victim quickly is vital and the operational readiness of breathing apparatus is crucial for team safety, these actions are part of the broader objective of scene security. The containment of the incident environment allows for effective rescue operations to proceed safely and efficiently. Similarly, evacuating civilians, while important in scenarios involving public safety, is not the primary focus in the context of securing the scene during a confined-space rescue. The safety of the responders and the protection of potential hazards must come first.