Why Do Fires Smolder & How Can That Impact Restoration
When a fire breaks out, the immediate concern is extinguishing the flames. But what happens after the visible fire is out? Often, a hidden danger lingers: smoldering fires. These slow-burning, flameless fires can cause significant damage long after the initial blaze is extinguished. Let’s delve into what smoldering fires are, why they occur, and how they impact restoration efforts. 🧯 What Is a Smoldering Fire? A smoldering fire is a slow, low-temperature, flameless form of combustion. Unlike flaming fires that burn quickly and visibly, smoldering fires burn slowly and can go unnoticed for extended periods. They often occur in materials like: These fires can persist for hours, days, or even weeks, producing smoke and heat that can cause extensive damage. ⚠️ Why Do Fires Smolder? Several factors contribute to smoldering fires: 1. Limited Oxygen Supply Smoldering occurs when there’s just enough oxygen to sustain combustion but not enough for flames.
