The History and Orientation of the Fire Service

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1

• The History and Orientation of the Fire Service

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Building Codes (1 of 2)

• History of building codes
• Egyptians used codes to prevent collapse.
• Colonial communities had few codes.
• Early construction in the United States was
  primarily wood.
• Boston required noncombustible roofs.
• Present codes address construction materials and
  built-in protection.

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Building Codes (2 of 2)

• Codes and standards are written by national
  organizations.
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• Volunteer committees research and develop
  proposals.
• Most codes today are consensus documents.

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Training and Education

• Originally, little was required beyond muscular
  strength and endurance.
• Requirements have increased as fire suppression
  has become more complicated and technical.