Master Plan Nashua Fire Rescue, NH
As is apparent by this description of the sequence of events, application of water in time to prevent flashover
is a serious challenge for any fire department. It is critical, though, as studies of historical fire losses can
demonstrate.
The National Fire Protection Association found that fires contained to the room of origin (typically
extinguished prior to or immediately following flashover) had significantly lower rates of death, injury, and
property loss when compared to fires that had an opportunity to spread beyond the room of origin (typically
extinguished post-flashover). As evidenced in the following figure, fire losses, casualties, and deaths rise
significantly as the extent of fire damage increases.
Figure 117. Fire Extension in Residential Structures, United States, 2011-2015
Rates per 1,000 Fires
Fire Extension
Civilian Deaths Civilian Injuries Average Pollen
eS S t=)
Confined to room of origin or smaller 1.8 24.8 $4,200
Confined to floor of origin 15.8 81.4 $36,300
Confined to building of origin or larger 24.0 57.6 $67,600
Source: National Fire Protection Association
Emergency Services
ESC) Consulting International 166
