3 For most symbols, there is no formal or universally accepted representation. This makes relating formulas from one book to another sometimes very confusing. I have tried to keep the symbols straightforward, in line with the standard when there appears to be a standard, and consistent throughout the book.

4 For SQL tuning help, I turn to Mr. Mark Gury of Mark Gury & Associates (MGA) based in Melbourne, Australia. Mark makes his living, in large part, by tuning the biggest and baddest SQL statements I have ever seen.

Firefighting situations are unique in that they contain a number of elements, which together bring fear and panic to nearly everyone involved. What you need to excel in this environment is confidence to methodically move forward step by step. Even though people are out of control around you and you're being peppered with distractions, if you have a proven method, you'll know exactly what to do. This book provides the knowledge and methods you need to be successful in a firefighting situation.