Define 'community risk reduction' in the context of fire service.

Community risk reduction refers to a proactive strategy employed by fire services to identify, assess, and mitigate risks within the community. This approach emphasizes prevention and preparedness rather than merely reacting to incidents after they occur. By focusing on community engagement and education, fire services can address various hazards - including fires, emergencies, and other vulnerabilities within the population.

Implementing community risk reduction involves various activities, such as public education programs, outreach initiatives, and collaboration with stakeholders to develop safer environments. The goal is to decrease the likelihood of incidents occurring and, if they do, to reduce their impact on the community. This forward-thinking perspective helps foster a culture of safety and resilience within the community, ultimately leading to fewer emergencies and lower associated costs in terms of health, property loss, and resources.

In contrast to purely reactive methods or narrow assessments like inspections, community risk reduction encompasses a broad range of strategies aimed at long-term safety and risk mitigation.