When should fire doors be closed?

Fire doors play a critical role in maintaining safety on a ship by preventing the spread of smoke and flames from one compartment to another during a fire event. They are specifically designed to close automatically in the event of a fire, effectively creating a barrier that helps to contain the fire and protect the crew and passengers.

During a fire or a fire drill, it is essential that fire doors are closed to ensure they function as intended. This containment measure allows for better control of the fire situation and provides vital time for rescue operations and safe evacuation. By practicing this during drills, crew members are trained to respond appropriately in an actual emergency, reinforcing the importance of keeping fire doors closed until they are needed.

In contrast, leaving fire doors open during times such as renovations, docked conditions, or training exercises increases the risk of fire spreading unimpeded, diminishing the protective benefits that fire doors are designed to offer. Therefore, closing fire doors during an emergency or drill is critical for maintaining the ship’s fire safety protocols.