During a MAYDAY event, what must firefighters prioritize?

During a MAYDAY event, the primary priority for firefighters is to remain calm and seek a safe haven. The nature of a MAYDAY situation indicates that a firefighter is in distress, often due to becomes disoriented, trapped, or facing a life-threatening condition. In such high-stress scenarios, maintaining composure is essential because panic can lead to poor decision-making and exacerbate the situation. Seeking a safe haven allows firefighters to stabilize their situation, assess their resources, and prepare for rescue or further actions.

Staying calm also aids in effectively communicating their situation and location to their team, which is critical for coordinating rescue efforts. The ability to collect one’s thoughts and make rational decisions can mean the difference between life and death, making this option vital during a MAYDAY call.