What is the result of improper ventilation during a fire operation?

Improper ventilation during a fire operation can lead to a dangerous buildup of heat and combustible gases within a structure. This situation significantly increases the risk for phenomena such as backdraft or flashover. A backdraft occurs when oxygen is suddenly introduced into a superheated environment filled with flammable gases, causing an explosive ignition. Similarly, flashover is the rapid spread of fire throughout the space, where all combustible materials reach their ignition temperature almost simultaneously. Both scenarios can severely threaten the safety of firefighters and occupants by potentially resulting in rapid fire spread and intense heat release.

In contrast, proper ventilation is essential for managing heat and smoke, ensuring that firefighters can operate safely and effectively. While increased visibility, reduced fire intensity, and quick extinguishment are desirable outcomes in firefighting operations, they are not a result of improper ventilation. Instead, inadequate ventilation disrupts these outcomes, contributing to hazardous conditions on the fireground.