What does the term "thermal layering" refer to in a fire scenario?

The term "thermal layering" describes the phenomenon where hot gases and smoke rise, creating distinct layers of temperature within a room during a fire. As the fire burns, it generates heat, causing the air and gases to rise due to their lower density compared to cooler air. This results in a stratification effect, where warmer, hotter air accumulates towards the ceiling while cooler air remains closer to the floor. Understanding this concept is crucial for firefighters, as it aids in predicting fire behavior, assessing conditions, and formulating effective strategies for attack and rescue operations. This stratification can influence how fire spreads and how smoke travels, which are critical factors to consider in firefighting tactics and safety measures.