What aspect must be evaluated regarding the structure's construction?

Evaluating the materials used and the construction style of a structure is essential for several reasons. First, different materials have varying levels of fire resistance, which significantly impacts how a fire spreads and how long occupants and firefighters have to safely escape. Understanding the construction style can also influence fire behavior; for example, modern lightweight construction materials may collapse more quickly under intense heat compared to traditional methods. This evaluation informs firefighters and safety personnel about potential risks and helps in developing effective strategies for both dealing with existing fires and preventing them in the first place. Therefore, assessing the construction materials and style lays a critical foundation for determining safety measures and response tactics.