BY THOMAS PLATT
在过去的几十年中,消防和它s scope have undergone an evolution. Unprece-dented new hazards and threats have emerged. Fires are burning differently because of modern construction techniques and furnishings; budget constraints are limiting staffing, equipment purchasing, and training; and firefighters now face not only new hazardous materials and technical rescue challenges but also terrorist and criminal events. Upholding the fire service mantra "adapt and overcome," we have responded proactively to these challenges by expanding our capabilities and introducing new technology, equipment, and training. To assist in fully understanding these ever-changing issues, fire protection engineers (FPEs) have provided valuable technical expertise to the fire service's progression. By hiring an FPE, a fire department will benefit greatly, as outlined below.
Fire protection engineering uses science and technology to protect people, properties, and businesses from destructive fires. FPEs understand how buildings are used; how fires start; how fires grow; and how fire and smoke affect people, buildings, and property. Using the latest technologies, they design systems that control fires and smoke, alert people to danger, and provide the means for escape; they evaluate buildings to pinpoint the fire risks and mitigate them; they conduct fire safety research on firefighting tactics and equipment, consumer products, and construction materials; and they investigate fires to discover how fire originates and spreads, why protective measures fail, and how those measures could have been designed more effectively. Although many FPEs work in the consulting, design, or insurance industries, their roles within the fire service are increasing, offering additional technical expertise and capabilities.
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