What is the main purpose of structure triage?

The primary purpose of structure triage is to inspect and classify structures by defensibility. This process is essential during emergencies, particularly in wildfire scenarios, where it is critical to assess which buildings can be defended and which ones are at a higher risk of igniting or causing further fire spread. By categorizing structures based on their defensible space, construction materials, and overall resilience to fire, fire captains and crews can make informed decisions regarding resource allocation and strategic firefighting efforts.

Prioritizing which structures to protect can significantly influence the outcome of firefighting operations and the safety of both emergency responders and residents. This triage process emphasizes the importance of actively assessing a structure's preparedness against fire threats, rather than past data or construction age, which are less relevant in immediate emergency contexts.