In NFPA 13E, what does pre-incident planning identify to support firefighting?

• A. Roof materials and exterior finish.
• B. Occupant demographics and liabilities.
• C. Water sources, access routes, and system layouts.
• D. Fire alarm programming and tenant education.

Answer: (C)

Pre-incident planning in NFPA 13E focuses on information that directly supports firefighting actions. It aims to map out how to obtain water, how to access the building, and how the fire protection systems are laid out, so responders can deploy effectively and safely. Identifying water sources, access routes, and system layouts provides the critical details needed to secure a reliable water supply, reach the fire scene, and anticipate how sprinklers or standpipes are arranged during an incident. Roof materials, exterior finish, occupant demographics and liabilities, or fire alarm programming and tenant education are not the core elements used to plan firefighting operations; they relate more to building characteristics, risk assessments, or life-safety programs rather than immediate firefighting tactics.