What does the term "combustible" refer to in fire safety?

The term "combustible" in fire safety specifically refers to materials that can ignite and burn when exposed to a sufficient heat source. These materials are capable of undergoing combustion, which is a chemical reaction that produces heat and light, along with other byproducts such as smoke. Recognizing combustible materials is crucial in fire safety as it informs the proper handling and storage practices to minimize fire hazards.

Other options describe characteristics that do not align with the definition of combustibles. For example, materials that are completely fire-resistant would not ignite or burn, thus they are not classified as combustible. Similarly, materials that are only flammable at high temperatures do not capture the broader nature of combustibles, which can ignite under varying conditions. Lastly, materials that produce no smoke do not fit the definition as combustibles may produce smoke when they burn, making the inclusion of this characteristic misleading in relation to combustibility.