What type of increased hazard exposure training has contributed to many training-related casualty statistics?

Training in acquired structures has been linked to a significant number of training-related casualties due to the unique challenges and hazards these environments present. Acquired structures are often older buildings that may have unknown structural issues, exposure hazards, or legacy materials that pose a risk to both trainees and instructors. The unpredictability of conditions within these buildings—such as compromised structural integrity or the presence of hazardous materials—can lead to increased danger during live-fire training exercises or simulation drills.

The use of acquired structures may create a false sense of security among trainees, who may not fully appreciate the risks involved. This has been compounded by the variety of designs and maintenance conditions of such buildings. Instructors focusing on safely navigating these risks while ensuring thorough training for firefighters can be crucial in reducing casualty rates associated with training in these settings.

In contrast, exterior fires, large prop fires, and purpose-built structures typically have more controlled environments and are designed specifically for training. These options generally offer a clearer understanding of the risk factors, as they are built with safety standards in mind, potentially reducing the likelihood of casualties compared to training in acquired structures.