The Hidden Danger in Bar Fires: What You Need to Know

A recent tragedy in a Swiss bar has brought attention to a deadly fire phenomenon called flashover. This event, which occurred in the early hours of a Thursday, has left many people wondering what exactly happened. Authorities believe that a flashover caused the explosion reported at the scene. But what is a flashover, and why is it so dangerous? A flashover happens when a fire in a closed space spreads very quickly. Almost everything in the room can catch fire at the same time. This rapid spread of flames is a major reason why fires can be so deadly. In the case of the Swiss bar, Le Constellation, flames tore through the building, causing an explosion and resulting in the loss of about 40 lives. Experts explain that when a fire starts in a room, hot gases rise to the ceiling. These gases spread heat throughout the space. Temperatures can reach up to 1, 000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to ignite almost any material in the room. This includes wood, furniture, and decorations. If the materials are highly flammable, like plastics, the fire can spread even faster.A flashover can turn a small flame into a massive fire in just a few minutes. For example, a candle could ignite a sofa, which then sets the carpet and the rest of the room on fire. This rapid spread of flames makes it nearly impossible for anyone inside to escape. Even firefighters in full protective gear would struggle to survive such intense heat. Flashovers are not rare. They happen every day in fires around the world. In fact, almost every major fire involves a flashover at some point. A similar tragedy occurred in 2003 in a nightclub in Rhode Island. A fire started by pyrotechnics quickly spread, killing 100 people. The situation in Switzerland seems to have followed a similar pattern. The good news is that flashovers can be prevented. Sprinklers can stop fires from reaching the point of flashover. Following fire codes, such as avoiding flammable materials on ceilings, can also help. Understanding the risks and taking preventive measures can save lives.