What prompted the formation of fire regulations in high-rise buildings?

The formation of fire regulations in high-rise buildings was largely prompted by major theater fires, particularly the tragic fire at the Iroquois Theater in Chicago in 1903, which resulted in a significant loss of life. Such incidents highlighted the severe risks associated with crowded public spaces and the need for stricter safety measures. This led to the development of building codes and fire codes aimed at preventing similar disasters, ensuring proper evacuation routes, fire suppression systems, and other safety measures in high-rise structures.

These historical events underscored the importance of managing fire safety in tall buildings where traditional firefighting methods could be challenged due to height and complexity. Consequently, the implementation of fire regulations became essential to protect occupants and minimize the potential for fatalities in the event of a fire.