It is standard operating procedure to attempt to stabilize fire conditions by extending wherever possible an aggressive well-placed and
adequate offensive interior fire attack effort and to support that aggressive attack with whatever resource and action is required to
reduce fire extension and to bring the fire under control.

A critical command decision (both initial and on-going) relates to the offensive/defensive mode of the situation:

     Offensive strategy - interior attack and related support directed toward quickly bringing the fire under control.
     Defensive strategy - exterior attack directed to first reduce fire extension and then bring the fire under control.

Command must define offensive/defensive mode based upon:

     Fire extent
     Structural conditions
     Entry capability
     Ventilation profile
     Rescue ability of occupants
     Resources

Basic Offensive Plan:

     Take command
     First line - fast, aggressive interior attack
     Provide support activities
     Initiate primary search
     Pump water
     Quickly evaluate success and react

Basic Defensive Plan:

     Take command
     Evaluate fire spread/write-off lost property
     Identify key tactical positions
     Prioritize fire streams
     Provide big, well placed streams
     Pump water
     Quick determination of additional resource