When would tactical ventilation be considered unnecessary?

Tactical ventilation is generally unnecessary during a flashover because this phenomenon indicates an extreme and immediate hazard within the structure. A flashover occurs when combustible materials in a room ignite almost simultaneously due to high heat levels, leading to a rapid spread of fire and significant danger to both firefighters and any potential victims inside. In such a volatile situation, introducing additional air through ventilation could exacerbate the fire’s intensity and further endanger trapped individuals or firefighting personnel. Therefore, it is critical to focus on controlling the fire and rescuing victims rather than conducting ventilation, which could worsen the conditions inside the structure.

In contrast, tactical ventilation may still be considered in situations like total loss exposure, a hot environment, or when people are trapped, although those contexts would typically require a careful assessment of risks and benefits before proceeding.