Question

What can happen if excess steam is produced inside the structure as a result of applying water on the fire?

a. Disruption of the thermal layering
b. Pyrolysis process speeds up
c. Transition from fuel-limited to ventilation-limited conditions
d. Increase in the potential for backdraft or flashover

Answer 1

Excess steam produced inside a structure as a result of applying water on the fire can disrupt thermal layering, increase the potential for backdraft or flashover, and transition the fire from fuel-limited to ventilation-limited conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Excess steam produced inside a structure as a result of applying water on the fire can have several consequences:

1. Disruption of the thermal layering: The layer of hot gases forming above the fire can be disrupted, leading to the mixing of hot gases and colder air. This can cause the fire to spread or become more intense.
2. Increase in the potential for backdraft or flashover: Excess steam can create a sudden influx of oxygen when it comes into contact with high temperatures, causing rapid combustion and increasing the risk of backdraft or flashover.
3. Transition from fuel-limited to ventilation-limited conditions: Excess steam can deprive the fire of oxygen, shifting the fire from being limited by the availability of fuel to being limited by the availability of ventilation.