What is flashover?

What is flashover?

• A. A rapid, controlled burn
• B. A type of sprinkler head
• C. A measurement method
• D. Rapid spread of fire due to total involvement

Answer: (D)

Flashover is the rapid transition of a fire from localized flames to the entire room or space becoming engulfed, as heat raises all exposed combustibles to their ignition temperature and they ignite almost simultaneously. This leads to a dramatic increase in heat release and fire growth, making conditions extremely dangerous for occupants and firefighters. The description fits the idea of a rapid spread of fire due to the room becoming totally involved. It’s not a rapid, controlled burn, it isn’t a type of sprinkler head, and it isn’t a measurement method.

Flashover is the rapid transition of a fire from localized flames to the entire room or space becoming engulfed, as heat raises all exposed combustibles to their ignition temperature and they ignite almost simultaneously. This leads to a dramatic increase in heat release and fire growth, making conditions extremely dangerous for occupants and firefighters. The description fits the idea of a rapid spread of fire due to the room becoming totally involved. It’s not a rapid, controlled burn, it isn’t a type of sprinkler head, and it isn’t a measurement method.