What is the primary focus of Squad 2 upon arriving at the Ashland Springs hotel fire?

The primary focus of Squad 2 upon arriving at the Ashland Springs hotel fire is to conduct a primary search above the fire floor. This is a critical operation as it ensures the safety of any potential victims trapped in the upper levels of the structure. Conducting a primary search allows firefighters to assess the situation quickly, locate individuals who may need assistance, and determine the fire's extension and impact on those areas.

In buildings such as hotels, the levels directly above a fire are often at significant risk due to smoke and heat. Therefore, prioritizing search operations in these areas is crucial for rescue efforts. Prompt action in conducting this search can result in saving lives and managing the overall incident more effectively.

The other options, while important in their respective contexts, do not align with the immediate priorities facing firefighters upon their arrival. For instance, performing exterior attacks is typically a strategy employed based on the overall fire response strategy rather than Squad 2's immediate focus. Blocking traffic is essential for safety but tends to be a lower priority than direct rescue efforts, while establishing staging operations is a support function that may not take precedence over searching for victims.