What is the primary hazard associated with a straight stream in interior firefighting?

The primary hazard associated with using a straight stream in interior firefighting is that it can intensify the fire. A straight stream of water is focused and can penetrate the fire compartment deeply, which may inadvertently introduce oxygen into the combustion zone. This sudden influx of oxygen can reignite burning materials or increase the energy of the fire, especially if the water is applied too aggressively or without consideration of the fire dynamics. Additionally, using a straight stream may fail to effectively cool the gaseous layer of hot air and smoke, which could lead to flashover. Understanding how different stream patterns interact with fire behavior is critical for safe and effective firefighting practices.