A fire damper is a safety device installed in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Its primary function is to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through ductwork by automatically closing when it detects high temperatures. This helps protect different areas of a building and ensures safe evacuation during a fire. Fire dampers are typically made of metal and are designed to withstand high temperatures. They are an essential component of fire protection systems in commercial and residential buildings, working in conjunction with other safety measures like smoke detectors and fire alarms to enhance overall safety.