Which type of ventilation openings can be used to stop fire spread in long narrow buildings, such as strip malls?

Trench ventilation openings are specifically designed to control and limit the spread of fire in long, narrow structures like strip malls. These openings create a horizontal vent at the floor level that allows smoke and heat to escape while also providing an entry point for fresh air to help displace the fire. By creating a pathway for heat and smoke to exit, trench ventilation effectively decreases the thermal layer and can help prevent fire from spreading beyond its original location.

Additionally, in the context of long narrow buildings, trench ventilation takes advantage of the building's geometry, allowing firefighters to tackle the fire more efficiently. This method also assists in protecting unburned areas by starving the fire of the necessary heat and oxygen that fuels its growth. The effectiveness of trench ventilation in managing fire dynamics in these types of structures makes it an important tactic in firefighting operations.