In firefighting, what is a common salvage operation?

In firefighting, covering ventilation openings is a common salvage operation because it helps prevent the spread of smoke and fire, thus minimizing damage to the structure and its contents. By sealing off ventilations, firefighters can contain smoke and heat to the affected area, leading to better preservation of property and allowing for more effective firefighting efforts. This action is a proactive measure that supports overall incident management and recovery efforts after a fire event, which aligns with the goal of salvage operations—reducing losses and protecting assets from further harm.

Other options, such as rescue operations, primarily focus on saving lives and securing the safety of personnel. Extinguishing small fires is a necessary firefighting tactic but does not fall under the umbrella of salvage operations. Similarly, deploying fire blankets is a specific technique used in certain environments, rather than a broad salvage operation method. Covering ventilation openings, on the other hand, is integral to controlling the conditions within a structure during salvage efforts, making it the most relevant choice.