How does a thread get the flame signal?

[MerrilyMerrily]

Sometimes when I read all the replies I can't figure out why the thread is "flame bait." Does it get the designation when someone requests it, or what?

[Mike 03]

1. I thought it just meant that the thread is "on fire", meaning

there is a lot of interest in that particular thread, leading to many replies. It's a "hot" thread because there is so much interest.

[CoopersDad]

2. The flame icon the the left of a discussion on any board means it's popular.

It's not about being flame bait.

It means it's HOT!

[Dennis Donovan]

3. The little flame over the file folder?

I believe that denotes high activity on a certain thread, not that it's flamebait.

[Harker]

4. I think it signifies a "hot" thread. n/t

[EarlG]

5. It happens when the thread receives a specific number of replies

Although it’s been so long since I’ve thought about it, I’m not sure what the number is. I think it’s either 25 or 50.

[MerrilyMerrily]

6. Thanks everybody! Now I know.