Which of the following is an example of passive fire defense?

Passive fire defense refers to features of a building that are designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, thereby protecting the structure and its occupants. These features work without requiring any operation or action from individuals; they are inherent to the building's design and construction.

Fire walls and doors are excellent examples of passive fire defense because they compartmentalize areas within a building, helping to contain fires to a specific region. Fire-resistant walls are engineered to withstand the heat and pressure of a fire for a certain period, thus inhibiting its spread to adjacent areas. Similarly, fire doors are designed to close automatically and create barriers that further restrict the movement of flames and smoke. Together, these elements constitute an integral part of a building's fire safety strategy.

In contrast, fire extinguishers and fire alarms are examples of active fire protection measures. Fire extinguishers require a person to operate them to combat a fire, while fire alarms alert occupants to the presence of smoke or fire, prompting them to evacuate or take action. Emergency lighting serves to illuminate exit routes during a power failure but does not actively prevent or contain a fire.

Understanding the distinction between passive and active fire defense is crucial for effective fire safety planning and compliance with fire protection codes.