What is the intent of the Mutual Aid Agreement regarding third parties?

The intent of the Mutual Aid Agreement focuses on clarifying the relationship and responsibilities between the participating fire departments. It specifically states that the agreement is not designed to confer any rights upon third parties. This means that individuals or entities not directly involved in or party to the agreement cannot claim benefits or rights deriving from it. The primary purpose of mutual aid is to enhance cooperation and resource sharing between fire departments during emergencies, rather than establishing avenues or protections for external parties. This distinction is important, as it ensures that the responsibilities and obligations are limited to the signatory departments, thereby avoiding any potential complications that could arise from third-party involvement.