What is the primary purpose of a smoke curtain during a fire?

The primary purpose of a smoke curtain during a fire is to contain smoke. Smoke curtains are designed to limit the spread of smoke in a building, thereby directing it to designated smoke control areas or allowing it to safely vent outside. By reducing the movement of smoke, these curtains play a crucial role in maintaining safer conditions for occupants, allowing clearer evacuation routes, and aiding in fire-fighting efforts.

While extinguishing flames, providing visibility, and cooling surfaces might be essential aspects of fire safety and management, they do not reflect the primary function of a smoke curtain. The curtain's main job is to manage smoke, which can be more hazardous than flames themselves, and can impede visibility and breathing during a fire emergency.