What is the best method to decrease overall response time in fire service operations?

The best method to decrease overall response time in fire service operations is getting on the rig and getting out of the firehouse in a timely manner. This is because the immediacy of action following an alarm is critical in emergency situations. The quicker the personnel can mount the apparatus and depart for the incident scene, the sooner they can start providing necessary assistance.

While other factors, such as ensuring personnel are ready beforehand, optimizing equipment maintenance, and completing pre-incident planning are all important for overall readiness and operational efficiency, they do not directly impact the immediate speed of response as the act of rapidly boarding the vehicle and leaving the station does. Timeliness is essential in emergencies, so the focus needs to be on quick and efficient mobilization.