What should be the primary consideration for staffing according to Fire Department procedures?

The primary consideration for staffing according to Fire Department procedures is to ensure that minimum staffing levels are met. This principle is crucial because adequate staffing levels are essential for maintaining operational readiness and ensuring the safety of firefighters and the public during emergency responses. Meeting minimum staffing requirements ensures that there are enough personnel available to respond to incidents effectively, which can directly impact the outcomes of emergency situations. Sufficient staffing helps to reduce response times, enhances the ability to manage multiple incidents simultaneously, and provides the necessary resources to carry out operations safely and efficiently.

While the other choices may reflect important aspects of staffing, they do not take precedence over the obligation to ensure that minimum staffing is always achieved. Maximizing overtime, promoting team cohesion, and limiting costs are secondary considerations that could enhance operations but cannot override the fundamental need for adequate personnel to effectively respond to emergencies.