Author Mike Smith has extensive knowledge and experience in both the fire service and construction industries, this text emphasizes the impact that an understanding of the principles of building construction has on firefighting strategy. It explains building materials and processes that are involved in the construction of structures and provides students with the knowledge required to operate safely and effectively within residential or commercial buildings. Discussions of actual incidents experienced by the author and case studies containing critical thinking questions give students a better understanding of what to expect in the field.