What is the primary limitation of a ventilation-controlled fire?

The primary limitation of a ventilation-controlled fire is based on the amount of available oxygen. In such a fire scenario, combustion is restricted by the oxygen supply, which means that even if there are ample combustibles and heat generated, the fire cannot escalate or spread unless additional oxygen becomes available.

When a fire is ventilation-controlled, it means that the fire's intensity and behavior are closely linked to the amount of oxygen in the environment. If there is insufficient oxygen, the fire cannot sustain combustion effectively, resulting in a reduced flame size and a lower rate of heat release. As the fire consumes available oxygen, it may become smoldering or extinguish if ventilation is not improved.

This concept highlights the importance of understanding how ventilation impacts fire dynamics. Firefighters and investigators must assess the ventilation conditions to understand the fire's behavior, predict its spread, and develop effective strategies for control or investigation.