What defines a hostile fire?

A hostile fire is defined as one that spreads beyond its intended area. This means that while a fire may start in a controlled environment, such as a fireplace, bonfire, or controlled burn, it can become hostile if it escapes from that designated area and begins to threaten surrounding property or environments. This distinction is crucial in insurance and risk management, as it determines liability and coverage in the event of fire-related damages.

The definition emphasizes the uncontrolled nature of a hostile fire, as it poses a greater risk to life and property than a fire that remains within its designated boundaries. Understanding this concept helps insurance adjusters assess claims related to fire damage and determine the applicability of coverage under specific circumstances.

In this context, a fire that stays contained represents a controlled situation and does not present the same level of risk. Likewise, an intentionally set fire may or may not be hostile depending on the situation. A fire that cannot be controlled indicates a lack of management but does not necessarily mean it has spread beyond its intended area; therefore, it may not fit the definition of a hostile fire in the same way.