May 03, 2006 10:50 AM CDT

Stoppiello: Knowledge Is Key To Fighting Fires

By The Courier

For firefighters across the nation, knowledge of the intricacies of fire, combustion and the psychology of where people like to hide within a burning building are all important. Equally important is their understanding of the kind of structure the firefighters will be entering.

According to Fire Chief Dean Stoppiello of the Union Beach Fire Department, there are three types of structures: historical masonry houses built in the 19th century, framed houses of the '50s, and new construction. He said that, of these buildings, that they see fewer fires in the masonry structures.

"Sometimes the drywall will burn and sometimes there is wood on the inside, but overall they are the most fire resistant," he said.

Having this knowledge of the kind of structures that firefighters will face in each town leads to the ability to make better decisions.

"All of this knowledge translates to saving lives," he said.

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About the Author

The Courier is a weekly newspaper based in Middletown, N.J. that covers the Northern Monmouth County area.