What is the primary function of fire barriers in fire suppression?

The primary function of fire barriers is to contain fires and prevent them from spreading to adjacent areas. This containment is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the structures and protecting occupants and property within a building. Fire barriers are designed to withstand fire and smoke for a specified duration, allowing occupants more time to evacuate and enabling firefighters to control the situation more effectively.

By using materials that can withstand high temperatures and resist flames, fire barriers create compartmentalized areas that help limit the movement of fire and smoke throughout the building. This is essential in reducing the overall damage caused by a fire, slowing its progression, and protecting critical escape routes and other areas until the fire is extinguished or controlled. The design and implementation of fire barriers are integral to effective fire safety strategies, emphasizing their role in fire prevention and mitigation.