What is the primary purpose of a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT)?

The primary purpose of a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) is to perform rescues of downed firefighters. This specialized team is specifically dedicated to quickly locating and retrieving firefighters who may become trapped or incapacitated in hazardous environments. Their establishment is a critical safety measure in firefighting operations, as it ensures that there is always a designated group ready to respond to emergencies involving their own personnel.

While assisting in fire suppression, managing incident command, or providing medical support are essential components of firefighting operations, these do not encompass the primary function of the RIT. The focus of the RIT is narrowly defined on the immediate safety and rescue of fellow firefighters, making this role distinct and vital in ensuring the overall safety of emergency response teams during an incident.