Final answer:
Fires in basements are particularly dangerous due to the scarcity of exits and poor ventilation, as exemplified by the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, illustrating the importance of proper fire safety measures in such environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fires are more dangerous in basements than in other compartments due to limited means of egress (ways out) and limited ventilation. The scenario described, involving workers unable to escape a fire, references a situation similar to the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of 1911. This historical event highlights the dangers posed by inadequate fire safety measures in workplaces, particularly in areas like basements where exits may be fewer and harder to access, and airflow is restricted, leading to faster smoke buildup and less time for occupants to escape.