In which stage of fire growth is the risk of flashover the greatest?

The stage of fire growth where the risk of flashover is the greatest is the explosive growth stage. During this phase, the fire has developed to the point where it starts to reach a critical mass, and the temperature increases rapidly due to the combustion of fuel and the heat released.

When the conditions are right—such as adequate fuel, sufficient oxygen, and high temperatures—flashover can occur. This phenomenon is characterized by the simultaneous ignition of all combustible materials in a room, which typically happens when the temperature reaches around 1,100 to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

In the explosive growth stage, the fire is likely to produce higher temperatures and increased heat release rates, creating an environment where flashover can happen very quickly. This is a dangerous situation, particularly for firefighters, as it can lead to a rapid increase in fire intensity and vertiginous challenges in controlling the fire.

In contrast, during the ignition and initial growth stages, the fire hasn't yet built enough heat and energy to reach the flashover threshold. The ventilation-limited stage tends to occur after the initial explosive growth, where the fire may no longer have sufficient oxygen to support rapid growth, potentially reducing the risk of flashover despite high temperatures. Thus, the explosive growth