What is considered to be the most important aspect of plans for coping with major plant fires?

The emphasis on ensuring that mutual assistance agreements have been developed is crucial when coping with major plant fires. These agreements facilitate collaboration between multiple organizations and agencies, enabling a more effective and coordinated response in the event of a significant incident. They outline protocols for resource sharing, assistance, and communication, which can be vital for managing large-scale emergencies that surpass the capacity of a single plant's firefighting resources.

While it is also essential to have adequate firefighting equipment, a well-manned fire response team, and well-trained personnel, these elements are often contingent upon the ability to leverage external support through mutual assistance. In scenarios where resources and capabilities may be overwhelmed, the pre-established partnerships can provide additional manpower and equipment, significantly enhancing the overall response effectiveness. Therefore, prioritizing mutual assistance agreements underscores the need for comprehensive planning and collaboration, which can be lifesaving during major fire incidents.