How can response times for ARFF apparatus and personnel be improved?

Improving response times for Airport Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) apparatus and personnel is crucial for effective emergency management. Pre-positioning units at stand-by locations allows for quicker access to areas that may need immediate response, particularly during emergencies involving aircraft incidents or fires. By strategically placing resources closer to potential fire hazards or high-traffic areas, the time taken to reach the site of an incident is significantly reduced.

This proactive approach ensures that ARFF teams can mobilize swiftly, expressing a readiness to address emergencies as they arise. This practice not only enhances the safety of airport operations but also contributes to overall firefighting efficiency, as response times can be a critical factor in minimizing damage and protecting lives during an incident.

In contrast, the other options do not provide effective solutions for improving response times. Larger vehicles may not enhance maneuverability or speed, while reducing the number of personnel could lead to inadequate response capabilities. Increasing the distance to runways would inverse the objective, making it more difficult to reach emergencies promptly. Overall, pre-positioning is the most logical and effective method to improve response times in ARFF operations.