Compartmentation

Definition: Compartmentation is a fire safety concept that uses walls and closed doors to slow the spread of fire, heat, and smoke from one room to another.

Parent Tip: Make it a nightly habit to close bedroom doors before sleep. A closed door can help block toxic smoke and heat and may give your family more time to escape or be rescued.

Why It Matters: Slowing the spread of fire and smoke can mean the difference between survivable conditions and a deadly environment, especially at night.

Related Terms: Fire Safety, Smoke Inhalation, Carbon Monoxide (CO), Emergency Plan


Written and reviewed by Jeremy Manke, Firefighter / Paramedic (22 years of emergency service)

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