What is a disadvantage of forced ventilation?

Forced ventilation can indeed have various implications during firefighting operations, and one notable disadvantage is that it may interfere with natural ventilation processes. When firefighters utilize forced ventilation techniques, such as using fans to blow smoke and heat out of a structure, it can disrupt the natural flow of air that would typically occur due to thermal buoyancy and pressure differentials created by the fire.

Natural ventilation relies on these principles to effectively move smoke and heat outside while allowing fresh air to enter, which can considerably enhance visibility and improve conditions for entry teams. By employing forced ventilation, firefighters might inadvertently hinder the natural airflow that is critical for clearing smoke and improving conditions within the building. This is particularly crucial in environments where natural ventilation could facilitate a faster and safer approach to combating the fire, making this interference a significant consideration when planning ventilation strategies.