What misconception did people have about The Winecoff Hotel's fireproofing?

The misconception related to the Winecoff Hotel's fireproofing centers on the belief that the exterior was made of brick. While brick is indeed often associated with fire resistance, the Winecoff Hotel was designed using a wooden frame, which significantly contributed to the fire’s rapid spread. Many people mistakenly assumed that the exterior materials sufficiently protected the building and its occupants from fire hazards. This misjudgment was a critical factor in the tragic outcome of the fire, highlighting that the presence of materials believed to be fire-resistant does not guarantee safety if the overall design and materials used do not offer adequate fire protection. Understanding the actual fire safety standards and the materials involved in the construction of buildings like the Winecoff Hotel is essential, as it informs better practices and regulations in building design to ensure safety against fire hazards.