Firefighters train to avoid flashover

Firefighters from around the lake area participated in a flashover simulator training class held at Sunrise Beach Fire Station 1 on Route 5 Tuesday, Nov. 3. In a mobile simulator from Customized Firefighter Training, Inc., firefighters got a chance to study how a structure fire works and in a controlled situation. It also demonstrates the signs of an oncoming flashover and where to spray water to avoid a flashover. A flashover is the ignition of combustible materials in an enclosed area all at the same time. Because of increased use of synthetic materials in homes, rather than wood, flammable gases cause fires to burn hotter and quicker, according to company president Jim Carpenter who holds a degree in fire science. When temperatures become hot enough, upwards of 1,000 degrees F, these gases ignite which can cause floor-to-ceiling fire in a structure within seconds - or a flash - at temperatures bunker gear cannot withstand.