What is the term for simultaneous ignition caused by heating all contents in a fire area?

What is the term for simultaneous ignition caused by heating all contents in a fire area?

• A. Backdraft
• B. Flashover
• C. Combustion
• D. Ignition delay

Answer: (B)

Flashover refers to the rapid transition of a fire from a smoldering or localized flame to a fully involved fire in which all combustibles in the area ignite almost simultaneously. This phenomenon occurs when the heat from the fire reaches a critical temperature, causing nearby materials to emit flammable gases and ignite. It is a significant concern in fire safety and is characterized by the fact that the entire room or area can become engulfed in flames in a very short time. In contrast, backdraft is a different phenomenon related to the sudden influx of oxygen into a smoldering fire, which can lead to an explosive fireball. Combustion is a general term for the chemical reaction of burning, while ignition delay refers to the time it takes for a substance to begin combusting after being exposed to heat. Understanding flashover is essential for fire prevention and safety, particularly in the context of firefighting tactics and strategies to protect lives and property during a fire incident.

Flashover refers to the rapid transition of a fire from a smoldering or localized flame to a fully involved fire in which all combustibles in the area ignite almost simultaneously. This phenomenon occurs when the heat from the fire reaches a critical temperature, causing nearby materials to emit flammable gases and ignite. It is a significant concern in fire safety and is characterized by the fact that the entire room or area can become engulfed in flames in a very short time.

In contrast, backdraft is a different phenomenon related to the sudden influx of oxygen into a smoldering fire, which can lead to an explosive fireball. Combustion is a general term for the chemical reaction of burning, while ignition delay refers to the time it takes for a substance to begin combusting after being exposed to heat. Understanding flashover is essential for fire prevention and safety, particularly in the context of firefighting tactics and strategies to protect lives and property during a fire incident.