Compartment Fires: Understanding their Characteristics and Extinguishing Techniques

In the firefighting industry, a compartment fire refers to a fire that is confined to a specific area or room within a building, such as an office or apartment. These types of fires can occur in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, and can be caused by a variety of factors such as cooking, smoking, and electrical malfunctions.

Compartment fires are particularly challenging to extinguish because of the unique characteristics of the confined space. The heat and smoke from the fire can quickly build up, creating a dangerous environment for firefighters and making it difficult to locate the seat of the fire. Additionally, a fire in a compartment can also quickly spread to other parts of the building through openings such as doors and windows.

To extinguish compartment fires, firefighters typically use a variety of techniques. This includes using fire extinguishers, hose lines, and ventilation to control the fire. They also use specialized tools such as thermal imaging cameras to locate the seat of the fire and to locate any hidden fires, and specialized tools such as hooks and pike poles to remove stored items and check for fire extension.

Additionally, firefighters also use specialized equipment such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to protect themselves from the hazards of entering a burning