Why do firefighters break windows and cut holes in a roof during a fire? It seems that they are causing more damage.
Fire in a building creates a tremendous amount of heat and smoke. In many instances, firefighters must remove this heat and smoke before they can get close enough to extinguish the fire. Heat and smoke rise, so cutting a hole in the roof and breaking out windows in strategic locations allows the smoke to vent upwards, allowing cool air to enter the structure from below. This is called "ventilation".

Venthilation improves visibility and lowers heat conditions for the firefighters inside, allowing them to quickly and safely extinguish the fire. Remember, heat and smoke cause damage too, so ventilation can actually reduce overall damage to a building and contents.

Furthermore, dangerous superheated gasses need to be ventilated to allow firefighters to safely and quickly rescue trapped occupants. The heated gasses can spread throughout the inside of the house and by breaking the window, this prevents a great deal more damage than it appears to cause.

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1. How big is the Wayzata Fire Department?
2. Is assistance from the fire department going to cost me?
3. Why can't I park in the fire lane? Obviously, if the building is on fire, I'll go move my car.
4. Can the Fire Department fill fire extinguishers?
5. What size fire extinguisher do I need for my home or business?
6. I need to get rid of some old gasoline, paint, and other hazardous waste products. Does the Fire Department take these items?
7. Why does the Fire Department respond with the North Memorial Ambulance to motor vehicle accidents?
8. Why do fire trucks respond to emergency medical calls?
9. When an emergency vehicle is approaching while I'm driving, should I always pull over to the right and stop?
10. I have noticed a "flood light" blinking at an intersection when fire trucks are approaching, what is this?
11. Why do so many fire apparatus respond to simple incidents?
12. Why do firefighters break windows and cut holes in a roof during a fire? It seems that they are causing more damage.