Flame spread refers to the rate at which fire travels across a surface or through a material. It is an important factor in fire safety, as faster flame spread can lead to more dangerous situations. Various materials have different flame spread ratings, which help determine their suitability for construction and other applications. Factors influencing flame spread include the type of material, its surface texture, and environmental conditions like airflow. For example, wood typically has a higher flame spread rate than concrete, making it crucial to use fire-resistant materials in buildings to enhance safety and reduce the risk of fire-related incidents.