Fire prevention is the most important non-firefighting or non-EMS activity performed by firefighters.  Most fires are caused by unsafe or careless acts, equipment failure, arson, or acts of nature.  Many fires can be prevented by teaching safe behaviors and eliminating unsafe conditions.

Fire Prevention includes the range of activities that are intended to prevent the outbreak of fires or limit the consequences if a fire does occur by limiting the loss of life or property.  These activities include education, engineering, inspection, enforcement, and investigation