## Strategies for Controlling Smoke in Large Enclosed Spaces Smoke control is an essential part of fire safety in large enclosed spaces such as shopping malls, factories, warehouses, auditoriums, airports, underground facilities and high-rise buildings. During a fire, smoke can spread rapidly and may cause more deaths than flames because it reduces visibility, contains toxic gases and makes evacuation difficult. Effective smoke-control strategies aim to prevent smoke movement, remove smoke from affected areas and maintain safe escape routes. One important strategy is the installation of smoke extraction and exhaust systems. Mechanical smoke exhaust fans can remove hot smoke from the building and discharge it safely outside. These systems are particularly useful in large halls, atriums, warehouses and underground areas where natural ventilation may not be sufficient. Exhaust systems should have adequate capacity and should operate automatically when a fire is detected. Smoke barriers and compartmentation are also effective. Large buildings can be divided into separate fire and smoke compartments using fire-resistant walls, doors and smoke curtains. These