What is a common misconception about how the fire can be spread in narrow structures?

The belief that fire does not spread in narrow structures is a misconception that can lead to dangerous underestimations of fire behavior. While it might seem intuitive that narrower spaces would limit fire growth and spread, factors such as heat buildup, the accumulation of combustible materials, and airflow can actually facilitate the rapid movement of fire even in confined areas.

Narrow structures often create unique conditions that can lead to an accelerated fire development due to trapped heat and smoke, making it essential for firefighters to recognize that a fire's intensity and spread can still be quite significant in these environments. Understanding this allows for appropriate tactics and strategies to be employed in fire suppression efforts, rather than assuming a false sense of security based on the structure's dimensions alone.