Why do firefighters break windows and cut a hole in the roof at a fire?

As a fire burns, it generally moves upward, then outward. Removing windows and cutting holes in the roof, or "ventilation" in firefighting terms, stops that damaging outward movement and enables them to fight more efficiently, resulting in less damage in the long run. It also reduces the amount of carbon monoxide and Hydrogen Cyanide from the building, which “buys” victims more time and reduces the chance of a “backdraft” or smoke explosion.

Show All Answers

1. What are the Firefighter Agility Test Requirements?
2. Why does the fire department respond to my house for a medical emergency?
3. What is an engine company and what do they do at a fire scene?
4. What is a ladder company & what do they do at a fire scene?
5. What are the various equipment on fire apparatuses?
6. Why does a fire engine come to my house when I have a medical emergency?
7. What does an Engine company do and what are their jobs on a fire scene?
8. What does a Ladder company do and what are their jobs on a fire scene?
9. What kind of tools and equipment is on the different trucks?
10. Why do firefighters break windows and cut a hole in the roof at a fire?
11. Why do firefighters cut holes in the walls at a fire?