A consideration when responding to a fire in a Type II building is that they are more prone to collapse because:

The correct answer identifies that Type II buildings are constructed using lighter-weight materials that have lower fire-resistance ratings compared to those used in Type I construction. This fact is crucial, as lighter materials can deteriorate more quickly under heat exposure, increasing the risk of structural failure.

In Type II construction, which typically includes non-combustible materials, the emphasis is on economy and practical building methods, often favoring lighter structural systems. As a result, during a fire event, the elements of the structure may lose integrity faster due to the reduced mass and lower thermal resilience of those materials. This vulnerability leads to a higher risk of collapse under fire conditions.

Understanding this characteristic of Type II buildings is essential for firefighting strategies, as it underscores the need for prompt and effective intervention to mitigate risks during a fire response.