Certified Fire Investigator Practice Exam

Which of the following would typically mitigate the risk of flashover?

1. Increasing the fuel load in the room

2. Maintaining adequate ventilation

3. Closing windows and doors tightly

4. Using combustible materials in construction

The correct answer is: Maintaining adequate ventilation

Maintaining adequate ventilation is critical in preventing flashover because it helps control the environment within a structure. Proper ventilation allows for the effective movement of smoke and heat, reducing the concentration of flammable gases that can accumulate. Without sufficient ventilation, these gases are more likely to reach the necessary temperature and concentration for flashover to occur, where a fire rapidly spreads and engulfs an entire area in flames. In situations where ventilation is compromised, the heat and smoke cannot escape, leading to a buildup of flammable gases and an increased risk of flashover. Therefore, ensuring that there is adequate ventilation helps to manage the temperature and reduces the likelihood of a rapid transition from a smoldering fire to an explosive fire event. This principle is essential for fire control strategies and effective firefighting tactics.