Identify the effects of fire and fire-suppression activities on structures.

Identification should include assessing the signs of structural instability and inspecting materials for damage, such as

  • wood
  • reinforced concrete
  • cast iron
  • masonry
  • steel
  • gypsum wall board
  • glass
  • lath and plaster.

Process/Skill Questions:

  • What factors affect the stability of a structure after an incident?
  • What are indicators of potential building collapse?
  • What happens to steel when it is heated? What might happen to a structure using steel beams?