What is the purpose of fire codes in relation to pre-incident planning?

The purpose of fire codes in relation to pre-incident planning primarily revolves around providing guidelines for fire safety. These codes establish the minimum safety standards that structures must adhere to, ensuring that buildings are constructed and maintained in a way that reduces the risk of fire and enhances the safety of occupants.

Fire codes include regulations regarding various aspects such as the construction materials, fire suppression systems, emergency exits, and occupancy limits. These guidelines not only help in planning for emergencies but also play a crucial role in the design and operational aspects of buildings to mitigate fire risks. By following these codes, fire departments can better prepare for incidents, strategize their response, and ensure the safety of responders and civilians.

While enforcing penalties for violations and ensuring proper evacuation procedures are important aspects of fire safety, they are not the primary purpose of fire codes in the context of pre-incident planning. Limiting building materials is a component of fire codes, but it serves as a part of the broader goal of providing comprehensive guidelines for overall fire safety.