How many major components does smoke have?

Smoke is generally composed of three major components: gases, vapors, and particulate matter. Understanding these components is crucial for firefighters, as each plays a different role in the behavior of smoke and its effect on health and visibility.

Gases are usually products of combustion that can be toxic and harmful. Vapors include substances that can condense into liquid droplets when smoke cools. Particulate matter consists of tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the smoke, which can impair visibility and contribute to health risks when inhaled.

Knowing that smoke consists of these three components helps firefighters to assess the situation effectively, determine the right protective gear, and understand the potential hazards they may face during firefighting operations.