How long can a Type 3 structure burn?

A Type 3 structure, which typically includes buildings constructed with some non-combustible materials but may incorporate combustible materials within certain sections, can indeed burn for a few hours. This characteristic is due to the composite nature of the construction, where the fire can spread through various materials, leading to a sustained burn time.

In Type 3 construction, the exterior walls provide some resistance to fire, yet the interior spaces can allow for fire spread, especially if flammable materials are present. This balance between non-combustible and combustible materials contributes to the potential for a fire to burn longer than just a few minutes yet not extend to several days under normal conditions.

Therefore, recognizing the specific building materials and configuration is crucial in assessing fire behavior, which aligns with the understanding that such structures can sustain a fire for several hours, depending on the conditions and materials involved.