Understanding Flashover: The Sudden and Dangerous Phenomenon in Firefighting

“Flashover” refers to a phenomenon that occurs in a room or enclosed area where a fire has reached a critical stage, resulting in a sudden and rapid ignition of all combustible materials within the space. This can happen when the heat and gases produced by a fire reach a certain level and cause the entire room to become involved in the fire at once.

During a flashover, the temperature inside the room can reach several hundred degrees Fahrenheit, making it extremely dangerous for firefighters to enter. To avoid flashover, firefighters use various tactics such as ventilation, cooling and isolating the fire to prevent its spread.

Firefighters also use thermal imaging cameras (TICs) to detect and monitor the heat build-up within a space and predict a flashover, allowing them to take appropriate action before it occurs.