What is one of the effects of overcrowding at public events?

Overcrowding at public events significantly increases the risk of fire hazards due to several factors. When venues become overcrowded, the movement of people can impede evacuation routes, making it more difficult for individuals to exit safely in the event of a fire. Additionally, overcrowded spaces can lead to a higher likelihood of flammable materials becoming ignited, as the contact between people and fire sources can increase.

Overcrowding also makes it challenging for fire prevention measures, such as sprinklers and alarms, to operate effectively, as they may become overwhelmed by the volume of people and the potential for chaotic conditions. This situation can heighten both the chance of a fire starting and the potential for it to spread quickly, putting attendees at greater risk than in a well-managed, appropriately spaced environment.