Which of the following is a common fire hazard in older buildings?

Single-pane windows are considered a common fire hazard in older buildings due to their inability to provide adequate thermal insulation and their ease of shattering. In the event of a fire, these windows can break easily, allowing flames and smoke to spread more rapidly into and out of the structure. Additionally, single-pane windows do not provide the same level of fire protection as modern multi-pane or tempered glass windows, which can inhibit the transfer of heat and smoke.

In older buildings, which may not have been constructed with modern fire safety codes in mind, the presence of single-pane windows can significantly increase the risk of fire spread and hinder evacuation efforts. This can be a critical concern for fire inspectors when assessing and addressing fire hazards in legacy structures. Elements such as modern sprinkler systems and fire-resistant materials are not common in older buildings but instead represent advancements that enhance fire safety. Similarly, while emergency exits are crucial for safety, they might not be easily accessible in older buildings, thereby increasing the risk in the event of a fire.