Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

Why is it advised to avoid opening a window during a fire?

1. It could let in rain

2. It will increase smoke exposure

3. It may feed the fire with oxygen

4. It will allow heat to escape

The correct answer is: It may feed the fire with oxygen

Avoiding the opening of a window during a fire is primarily advised because it may feed the fire with oxygen. Fires require three components to sustain themselves: heat, fuel, and oxygen—often referred to as the fire triangle. When a window is opened, it can allow fresh air to enter the space, which increases the supply of oxygen available to the fire. This influx of oxygen can intensify the fire, potentially making it larger and spreading the flames more quickly, resulting in greater danger for anyone inside the building. While smoke exposure is a significant concern during a fire, the critical factor influencing fire behavior in this scenario is the availability of oxygen. Allowing heat to escape or rain to come in are lesser considerations compared to the immediate risk of exacerbating the fire. Therefore, it is crucial to understand that managing oxygen levels can greatly impact the spread and intensity of a fire, highlighting why this is the best rationale for not opening windows during such an event.