What is the primary goal of overhaul operations in firefighting?

The primary goal of overhaul operations in firefighting is to reduce the incidence of secondary fires and stabilize the incident scene. During overhaul, firefighters systematically search for and extinguish hidden fires that may reignite, which is critical in preventing flare-ups that could complicate the situation and pose further danger. This stage of firefighting involves ensuring that the entire area affected by the fire is thoroughly checked for any remaining hotspots and that the scene is made safe for both firefighters and civilians.

Furthermore, stabilization of the incident scene allows for a more effective recovery process and prepares the area for fire investigators to assess the cause of the fire. By focusing on eliminating any potential risks of rekindling, overhaul operations play a crucial role in effective incident management and community safety after the initial firefighting efforts have been completed.