What is another key indicator of the need for a defensive attack?

A defensive attack in firefighting is often warranted when the conditions suggest a high level of danger for both firefighters and the structure involved. One key indicator of this need is the requirement for large amounts of water to extinguish the fire. This suggests that the fire is not only extensive but may also have the potential to spread quickly. The use of significant water quantities indicates a robust and potentially out-of-control fire which cannot safely be handled with an offensive approach from within the structure.

When large volumes of water are needed, it demonstrates the severity of the situation and the risk involved, leading incident commanders to choose a defensive posture to protect lives and minimize further damage. In contrast, scenarios such as low visibility or fire confined to a single room typically imply a more manageable situation where an offensive attack could be feasible.