Under what condition should a defensive strategy be considered in a strip mall fire incident?

A defensive strategy during a strip mall fire incident is essential in particular circumstances that indicate the situation is beyond control, necessitating the protection of life and property rather than extinguishing the fire directly. The correct answer is related to the scenario where the fire has breached the roof upon arrival.

When fire has spread through the roof, it usually indicates that the blaze has progressed significantly beyond its point of origin and may put surrounding units and potential occupants at risk. In such cases, a defensive attack strategy prioritizes protecting adjacent structures, preventing further fire spread, and ensuring the safety of firefighters and civilians over an offensive attack that may no longer be viable given the intensity and scope of the fire.

Considering other conditions, if structural elements are intact, it may indicate a more favorable situation for an offensive strategy. Similarly, if the fire is contained to one unit, an offensive strategy might be appropriate to extinguish it before it spreads. Having all resources available suggests preparedness for an offensive attack, assuming other conditions are favorable. Hence, the significant advancement of the fire indicated by its presence through the roof necessitates a defensive approach to manage safety and loss effectively.