In the planning process, the objective of _____________ is to identify major local fire and life safety problems.

The objective of identification in the planning process is crucial because it focuses specifically on recognizing and defining the major fire and life safety issues within a local context. This step is essential as it lays the groundwork for determining appropriate strategies and interventions to address these issues effectively.

By carrying out a thorough identification process, educators and safety officials can gather vital information about the specific risks and hazards present in their communities. This includes gathering data on fire incidents, evaluating past safety practices, and understanding the needs and behaviors of the population they serve. This foundational knowledge is imperative to prioritize resources and efforts, ensuring that the most pressing problems are addressed first.

While the other options—implementation, evaluation, and assessment—are important processes in fire and life safety planning, they serve different purposes. Implementation focuses on putting planned strategies into action, evaluation examines the success of those strategies after they have been implemented, and assessment typically refers to measuring or appraising the overall effectiveness of fire and life safety initiatives over time. Each of these plays a role in the overall planning cycle, but identification stands out as the critical first step in addressing safety concerns effectively.