What is typically considered the highest priority during an incident?

Personnel safety is typically considered the highest priority during an incident because it is crucial to ensure that both responders and any individuals involved are not in danger. The rationale behind prioritizing personnel safety is rooted in the fundamental values of emergency services, which emphasize that no life-saving effort is worth the risk of further injury or death to those involved in the rescue or response.

Responders must operate under the principle of "safety first" to minimize the risks associated with various hazardous situations, which may include unstable vehicles, leaking hazardous materials, or chaotic environments. By ensuring that the safety of personnel is the primary concern, responders can carry out their duties more effectively, focusing on rescuing individuals while maintaining their own well-being.

Other considerations such as property preservation, incident resolution, and community assistance are important but typically follow after establishing a safe environment for all personnel involved. Prioritizing safety allows responders to operate efficiently and effectively while addressing the needs of the incident in a controlled manner.