In SOP202, which factors should be considered when determining tactics for fire suppression?

Both fire behavior and building construction are crucial factors to consider when determining tactics for fire suppression. Understanding fire behavior helps firefighters anticipate how a fire will react based on its fuel, oxygen availability, and the stages of the fire. This knowledge allows for more effective strategies, such as deciding whether to attack from the exterior or interior, depending on how the fire is spreading and how intense it is.

Building construction plays an equally important role in shaping suppression tactics. Different materials and building designs can significantly affect fire spread, structural integrity, and available escape routes. For example, a building constructed with lightweight materials might fail more quickly than one built with traditional heavy materials, which influences decisions about how to engage with the fire.

Taking both of these elements into account allows firefighters to create informed and adaptive suppression strategies tailored to the specific scenario they are facing, maximizing their effectiveness and safety during operations.