Which agency is primarily responsible for marine firefighting and damage control?

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is primarily responsible for marine firefighting and damage control due to its established role in maritime safety and security. The USCG's mission encompasses a variety of maritime responsibilities, including search and rescue operations, pollution prevention, and maritime law enforcement. Specifically, in the context of firefighting and damage control, the USCG is trained and equipped to respond to fire emergencies on vessels as well as manage damage control efforts in maritime environments.

The agency also conducts training and provides resources to both its personnel and industry partners to ensure preparedness for responding to maritime emergencies. This focus on maintaining safety and preventing disasters at sea underscores the USCG's pivotal role in managing marine incidents effectively. Other agencies have distinct missions that do not primarily focus on marine firefighting, such as environmental regulation or emergency management in broader contexts, which is why they are not the correct choice for this responsibility.