Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI) Entry Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The term "flashover" in firefighting refers to a phenomenon where a fire transitions from local ignition of a material to a rapid, widespread combustion event throughout an entire area or space. This occurs when the temperatures rise to a point that allows for the simultaneous ignition of all combustible materials in the vicinity, markedly accelerating the fire's spread.

In this context, understanding flashover is crucial for firefighting strategy and safety, as it can happen quickly and unexpectedly, creating extreme hazards for firefighters and anyone else in the area. Recognizing the signs leading up to flashover, such as the formation of a thick, dark smoke and extreme heat buildup, is vital for responding effectively and saving lives.

While gradual spread of smoke, extinguishing techniques, and air supply management are all concepts related to fire behavior and firefighting tactics, they do not encapsulate the critical nature of flashover. Flashover is a specific and immediate danger that requires different precautions and understanding from those broader topics.