What should be the characteristic of materials used in a fire compartment?

The materials used in a fire compartment are critical in fire protection and safety. The correct answer highlights that these materials should help contain a fire. This characteristic is essential because fire compartments are specifically designed to limit the spread of fire and smoke, thereby protecting the egress routes and providing occupants more time to evacuate safely.

Using materials that are effective in fire containment can prevent a fire from spreading to adjacent areas, which is vital for life safety and property protection. This can include fire-resistant walls, doors, and ceilings made from non-combustible materials or those that can withstand high temperatures for a specific period.

In contrast, materials that easily combust or are flammable would greatly increase the risk of fire spread, which is counterproductive to the intended use of fire compartments. High thermal conductivity materials could transfer heat quickly, further exacerbating fire spread and compromising containment efforts. Thus, the correct choice emphasizes the critical role materials play in creating a safe environment during a fire incident.