Passive fire protection systems have a significant tactical operations value that is frequently misunderstood, underappreciated, and underused at working fires. Knowing protected areas of refuge can save firefighters’ and victims’ lives. Understanding how passive fire protection system features can be employed during a fire can help firefighters gain an advantage over a fire. Incorporating information on passive fire protection systems in pre-planning for a property will make a difference when that plan is put into action as part of a coordinated response. Knowing the passive fire protection systems in structures in your community can help you deliver better public education so civilians understand the importance of simple but critical actions such as closing doors behind them when evacuating, refraining from defeating mechanisms like fire doors, and knowing where safe refuge areas are inside their building. But fire crews can only gain these many benefits from passive fire protection systems if they understand what they are, how they work, and what to do with them in tactics, prevention, and pre-planning. This module gives firefighters the background they need to understand how to put passive fire protection systems to work. Passive fire protection systems are a valuable tactical tool. The building can be a firefighter’s friend — if the firefighter knows how to use it.