What is required before reopening cabin vents after a fire?

Before reopening cabin vents after a fire, it is crucial to ensure that the fire is completely extinguished. When a fire occurs on board, the first priority is to eliminate the immediate threat it poses to the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. Reopening cabin vents too soon, while there may still be smoldering materials or active fire, can allow smoke, heat, or toxic gases to re-enter the cabin, which jeopardizes cabin safety and can lead to further complications.

Ensuring that the fire is entirely out minimizes the risk of smoke inhalation or the potential for reignition. This precaution helps to protect passengers and crew by maintaining a safe environment within the cabin post-emergency. Proper operational procedures following a fire usually recommend this step as a part of the overall emergency response protocol.