Operational plans can contribute primarily to which aspect of fire safety?

Operational plans are essential for the effective implementation of fire response protocols. These plans outline the procedures and strategies that emergency responders need to follow in the event of a fire. They include details on evacuation routes, communication methods, resource allocation, and coordination among different response teams. By having a clearly defined operational plan, the response to a fire incident can be much more organized and effective, ultimately saving lives and reducing property damage.

While the other options—design of the building structure, licensing procedures for engineers, and management of utility services—are important aspects of overall fire safety, they do not directly pertain to the actual response during a fire incident. Operational plans specifically target how to act during a fire situation, making them crucial in ensuring that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities, thereby improving the overall safety and efficiency of the response efforts.