What happens to the weight of stacked materials when water is applied to extinguish the fire?

When water is applied to extinguish a fire, the weight of the stacked materials increases due to water absorption. This phenomenon occurs because materials such as wood, paper, or other absorbent substances can take in water, leading to an increase in their overall mass. As water penetrates the materials, it becomes part of their structure, contributing to the weight. This is especially relevant in firefighting situations, where the materials involved in a fire may not only absorb water but also undergo changes in their physical properties.

The weight increase is a critical factor for firefighters to consider when assessing the stability of materials at a fire scene. Overly saturated materials can become heavy and potentially unstable, posing risks during suppression efforts or rescues.