What is the primary goal of ventilation during firefighting operations?

The primary goal of ventilation during firefighting operations is to remove smoke and heat from a structure, which significantly improves visibility and safety for both firefighters and any occupants that may still be trapped inside. Effective ventilation lowers temperatures and helps reduce smoke accumulation, thereby creating a clearer environment for emergency responders to navigate. This promotes more effective firefighting strategies and increases the likelihood of saving lives and property.

Ventilation also helps to reduce the chances of a dangerous condition known as flashover, where the accumulated heat and combustibles can ignite rapidly. By facilitating the passage of hot gases and smoke out of the building, ventilation aids in controlling the fire's behavior and allows firefighters to attack it more efficiently.