What are the two types of rescues typically performed by firefighters?

Firefighters typically perform two main types of rescues: emergency rescues and non-emergency rescues. Emergency rescues are actions taken in urgent situations where immediate help is needed to save lives or prevent serious injuries, such as extricating individuals from vehicles after an accident or rescuing someone from a burning building. These scenarios require quick response and decisive action to mitigate hazards.

Non-emergency rescues, on the other hand, may involve situations where individuals are in distress but not in immediate life-threatening danger. For example, this could include helping someone who is stranded in a difficult location or assisting a person with medical conditions who needs to be moved. These rescues, while still important, allow for a more measured response as the immediate threats may not be as critical as in emergency scenarios.

Identifying these categories is important for understanding the scope of firefighting responsibilities and the different protocols firefighters must follow in various situations. This distinction also allows for effective resource allocation and prioritization of efforts during rescue operations.