During a fire incident, what behavior should responders exhibit when violence erupts?

When violence erupts during a fire incident, it is crucial for responders to prioritize safety above all else. Stopping all operations involving personnel on the ground is essential to ensure that responders are not placed in harm’s way. This action allows for a comprehensive assessment of the situation, enabling responders to evaluate the risks and decide on the best course of action to protect themselves and civilians.

Maintaining operational continuity in the face of potential violence could lead to severe injuries or fatalities, not only among responders but also among bystanders. Thus, the correct response is one that emphasizes the safety of personnel first by halting all on-ground operations until it is safe to proceed. This strategic pause can also provide valuable time for law enforcement or additional resources to be deployed to manage any violence safely before resuming firefighting efforts.

While aerial support and strategy may play roles in some scenarios, the immediate need during an outbreak of violence is to ensure everyone's safety by stopping operations.