In a HOT lavatory door incident, after cracking the door and discharging through the crack, how long should the door be kept shut?

• A. 30 seconds
• B. 5 minutes
• C. 1 minute
• D. 2 minutes

Answer: (A)

When dealing with a hot lavatory fire, you want to control the flow of air and heat. Cracking the door and discharging through the crack starts to purge the space of hot gases and smoke, but leaving the door open too long can allow a fresh influx of oxygen that feeds the fire and can cause a flash or backdraft when you re-enter. Keeping the door shut for a short, controlled interval lets the hot gases escape through the crack and lets the space begin to cool, reducing the danger when you proceed. About 30 seconds is long enough to purge effectively but short enough to minimize heat exposure and the risk of re-ignition. Longer durations would increase risk, while shorter ones might not purge enough.