A Firefighter's Guide to Building Construction Basics

  • October 24, 2026
  • 1:00pm-2:50pm
  • FESTI -- 2025 Courtneypark Drive East Mississauga ON L5T 1J3

Facilitated by Jessica Clermont

This class is for anyone who wants a better understanding of building construction, and how it affects us

as firefighters. We will start by discussing how building construction has changed over the years. We will

review the 5 types of building construction, the materials they use and how they are affected by fire. And

lastly, we'll discuss facts and myths of legacy vs. engineered vs. light weight construction. I look forward

to sharing knowledge on an important yet under-looked topic!

Jessica Clermont

Firefighter with Toronto Fire Services since 2008, currently holds rank of Acting Captain.

Volunteer Firefighter with the City of Kawartha Lakes since 2023.

Forcible entry, RIT, High-Rise Ops, Vent Saw Instructor for TFS.

Instructor at Centennial and Fleming College Firefighter Pre-Service Programs.

Conferences attended include: FSWO, FDIC, CHC, NYSFC, WIFIC, Smoke is Showing, FSWBC, and OAFTO.

My favorite weapons are hockey sticks and halligan bars.

I have 5 dogs, 1 cat, and 1 human.