What is the main purpose of a fire barrier?

The primary function of a fire barrier is to slow the spread of fire within a building. Fire barriers are constructed from fire-resistant materials and are designed to compartmentalize areas within a structure. This compartmentalization helps to contain fires, preventing them from spreading rapidly to other parts of the building, which can provide occupants more time to evacuate and can assist in limiting property damage. By delaying the advancement of fire and smoke, fire barriers play a crucial role in overall fire safety management within a building, allowing for effective evacuation procedures and reducing the risk of extensive fire damage.