What does "structural firefighting" refer to?

Structural firefighting refers to the practice of combating fires that occur within buildings and structural environments. This type of firefighting specifically addresses the unique hazards that are present in such environments, including potential structural collapse, toxic smoke, and the presence of hazardous materials that may not be a concern in open areas or wildland fires. Firefighters engaged in structural firefighting must be equipped with specialized training and tools to navigate complex environments, protect occupants, and effectively extinguish fires while ensuring their own safety as well as that of their colleagues.

The emphasis on structural for this type of firefighting highlights the need for understanding both the behaviors of fire in enclosed spaces and the dynamics of building materials, which can change how fires develop and are suppressed. This is in contrast to firefighting in open areas, wildland fires, or industrial settings, where the hazards and tactics differ significantly from those faced in structural firefighting scenarios.