Principles of Modern Building Construction

Principles of Modern Building Construction is designed to raise the awareness of Fire Service personnel of the dangers inherent in the construction methods and materials prevalent today, and compare them with the construction methods of old. A brief review of construction types and methods is used as a platform to introduce new lightweight materials and methodology. Factors such as high-heat-release fuel loading, energy efficiency, thermo pane windows, tighter building envelopes, and the impacts these have on the time temperature curve will be introduced. This course encourages students to document new construction using digital photography. This will afford the firefighter advanced knowledge of vulnerabilities and exposures, and will hopefully facilitate better tactical decision-making and outcome prediction.

Michael S. Scardino, Deputy Chief, Winslow Fire Department