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In a defensive fire scenario, the primary tactical priority is to establish a hazard zone. This involves identifying and securing areas that are at risk, as well as ensuring the safety of personnel and bystanders. The focus during a defensive operation is primarily on protecting lives first and then preventing the fire from spreading to surrounding properties or areas.

Establishing a hazard zone allows incident commanders and firefighting teams to manage resources effectively while prioritizing their safety. It facilitates the proper functioning of operations by giving clear guidelines on where the fire is too dangerous to approach directly and where operations can be safely conducted from a distance.

While search and rescue operations, property conservation, and securing resources for an offensive attack are essential aspects of firefighting in certain contexts, they become secondary during defensive strategies. In a defensive posture, the emphasis shifts to containing and mitigating risk, ensuring that the fire does not escalate further or endanger more lives. Thus, establishing a hazard zone is critical for operational safety and effectiveness in a defensive response.