In firefighting, what does the term "smoke layering" refer to?

The term "smoke layering" is best captured by the concept of density differences creating visually distinct layers. In a fire scenario, as smoke rises, it cools and can create layers based on temperature and density. These layers can appear distinctly due to variations in heat, which causes the smoke to stratify. The cooler smoke tends to settle lower in the compartment, while the hotter, less dense smoke rises to higher levels. This phenomenon is crucial for understanding fire behavior and smoke management, as it assists firefighters in assessing conditions within the environment and effectively navigating their operations.

Understanding smoke layering is essential for safety and strategy, as it can indicate where the fire is situated and influence how firefighters may approach the incident. For instance, heavy smoke concentrated at a certain level might signal a high-temperature area, necessitating caution in that zone. Recognizing and utilizing clues from smoke layering can lead to more effective firefighting tactics and enhance situational awareness during operations.