What is the goal of salvage efforts during firefighting?

The goal of salvage efforts during firefighting is primarily focused on reducing secondary losses from smoke and water. When firefighters respond to a blaze, their actions are not only aimed at extinguishing the flames but also at minimizing the damage caused by the firefighting process itself, which can include significant water damage from suppression efforts and smoke infiltration into unaffected areas.

Effective salvage operations involve protective measures, such as covering belongings and furniture, utilizing chutes to direct water runoff, and efficiently managing the interior temperature to limit smoke spread. These measures help to preserve property and reduce overall damage that may result from both fire and firefighting activities.

While extinguishing visible flames is critical, it does not encapsulate the broader objectives of salvage operations. Maintaining structural integrity is certainly important, but it is a different focus than the goal of reducing secondary losses. Preventing flashovers is a concern during firefighting tactics, particularly in confined spaces, but it is not the primary aim of salvage efforts. Therefore, the essence of salvage during firefighting is about protecting property and minimizing losses post-incident.