What is a common method for sealing off a compartment during firefighting?

Sealing off a compartment during firefighting is a critical strategy for controlling the fire and smoke spread. The use of watertight doors serves this purpose effectively because these doors are designed to create a robust barrier that can withstand high temperatures and prevent the ingress of smoke and flames into other areas of the vessel. By closing and securing watertight doors, firefighters can confine the fire to a specific area, helping to protect personnel and maintain the integrity of the vessel while firefighting operations are carried out.

In contrast, fire-resistant curtains, while somewhat effective, may not provide the same level of sealing as watertight doors. They can help to control smoke but might not contain heat or flames as effectively. Duct tape could assist in sealing minor gaps but is not reliable for large openings and may not withstand high temperatures. Leaving doors partially open would allow smoke and flames to spread, which is not conducive to effective damage control during firefighting. Thus, the selection of watertight doors as a sealing method highlights their role in maintaining safety and operational effectiveness during firefighting efforts.