What is meant by a "critical incident" in firefighting?

A "critical incident" in firefighting refers to a situation that has significant potential for injury. This involves incidents where the safety of firefighters and civilians may be gravely threatened, requiring immediate and effective action to prevent harm. Understanding what constitutes a critical incident helps response teams assess risk levels, implement safety measures, and deploy resources accordingly.

In the context of fire service operations, recognizing critical incidents is essential for maintaining the safety of all personnel involved. It drives the need for vigilant situational awareness and proactive risk management strategies to mitigate the dangers present in such scenarios. This could include situations with structural risks, hazardous materials, or potential for violent confrontations, all of which require heightened caution and more rigorous safety protocols to protect responders and the public.