What is a risk associated with inhalation of elevated temperatures?

Inhalation of elevated temperatures can lead to significant respiratory issues, prominently causing fluid build-up in the lungs, a condition known as pulmonary edema. When hot air or smoke is inhaled, it can irritate the respiratory tract, causing inflammation and damage to lung tissues. This damage can result in increased permeability of the lung's capillaries, allowing fluid to leak into the alveoli, which are crucial for gas exchange. This accumulation of fluid impairs oxygen absorption, leading to respiratory distress and other complications.

This is particularly concerning in the context of firefighting and facility fire operations, where exposure to high temperatures and smoke is a critical factor. The other options, while related to physiological responses, do not specifically address the immediate and severe risk associated with inhaling elevated temperatures in the same direct way as fluid build-up in the lungs does.