What does natural ventilation rely on?

Natural ventilation relies on wind and convection currents to enhance airflow within a structure. This method allows for the movement of smoke, hot gases, and heat from the fire out of the building while bringing in cooler air from outside. Wind creates pressure differences that can lead to the outward flow of smoke, while convection currents are generated by the heat of the fire, causing warmer air to rise and exit through openings, thus drawing in cooler air from other areas.

Using natural ventilation is beneficial during firefighting efforts as it can help clear smoke for visibility, reduce heat, and lower the overall temperature within a burning structure. In contrast, powered ventilation methods, such as fans, depend on mechanical systems, while water sprays are aimed at cooling hot gases. Manual efforts by firefighters may assist in the process, but natural ventilation primarily harnesses natural atmospheric conditions to facilitate smoke and heat removal.