What is the primary purpose of fire codes?

The primary purpose of fire codes is to limit fire loss. Fire codes are designed to establish minimum safety standards that help protect life, property, and the environment from the hazards associated with fires. They provide regulations for building construction, occupancy, emergency access, and fire protection systems among other aspects. By enforcing these codes, municipalities aim to minimize the likelihood and impact of fires, which ultimately reduces fire-related injuries, fatalities, and property damage.

While preventing fires from occurring is a goal of these efforts, the broader intent of fire codes encompasses the entire spectrum of fire safety, including preparedness for potential incidents and establishing protocols for response and recovery. Fire codes also contribute to various aspects of community safety and resilience, which includes not only education but also regulation compliance by individuals and businesses. However, their primary focus remains the limitation of loss associated with fire incidents, making them critical to public safety initiatives.