The decision to operate in a defensive mode indicates only that the offensive attack strategy has been abandoned for reasons of
personnel safety and the involved structure has been conceded as lost (written off).

The announcement of a change to a defensive mode will be made as "vacate and attack" and all personnel will withdraw from the
structure and maintain a safe perimeter. "Vacate and attack" will also be sounded on the fireground by using the multiple long blasts
of the apparatus air horns and radio communications. Sector, sides and operational area officers will account for the safety of all
personnel.

Interior lines will be withdrawn and repositioned when changing to a defensive mode. Lines should not be operated directly into
doorways or windows but should be backed away to positions which will protect exposures.

All exposures, both immediately and anticipated, must be identified and covered. The first priority in defensive operations is to protect
exposures.

The second priority may be to knock down the main body of fire. This may assist in the protection of exposures but does not replace
it as a first priority.

When exposure is severe and water is limited, the most effective tactic is to put the water on the exposure.

Once exposure coverage is established, attention may be directed to knocking down the main body of the fire. The same principles
of large volume procedures should be employed.