The single best thing that could be done when new buildings are constructed is to add sprinkler systems, period. You than will get a few hundred gallons from the system or 20,000 gallons from the fire service, your call.

Also, in North America prefabricated stairs are now being used in new construction. The stairs burn through easily thus making it extremely unsafe to go into burning basements or second floor areas. Unless a human life is at risk I think firefighters will have to reassess the benefits of house entry into shoddily-built structures. I hope they do. Certain structures are rightfully called widow-makers. No building is worth a firefighters life, imo.