What is the purpose of closing vents during a cabin fire?

The purpose of closing vents during a cabin fire is to prevent smoke from entering the cabin. In the event of a fire, smoke can quickly fill the cabin space, leading to reduced visibility and increased inhalation risks for those on board. By closing the vents, you can minimize the influx of smoke and enhance the chances of maintaining a breathable atmosphere.

Additionally, closing off the vents serves to isolate the fire to the area where it is occurring, potentially slowing its spread and buying valuable time for the pilot and passengers to react effectively, whether that be by extinguishing the fire, preparing for an emergency landing, or following specific emergency procedures.

In the context of the other options, increasing cabin pressure, cooling the cabin, or maintaining cabin heat are not primary considerations during a cabin fire scenario. The immediate priority is safeguarding the health and safety of the occupants by preventing smoke from entering the cabin.