What are the principles of fire behavior?

The principles of fire behavior are foundational concepts that describe how a fire develops and progresses. The correct answer encompasses key stages that fire undergoes from its inception to its eventual decline.

Ignition is the initial stage where a fuel source reaches its ignition temperature, leading to the start of combustion. Following ignition, the fire enters the growth stage, where it expands rapidly as it consumes available fuels and oxygen. As the fire spreads and consumes more material, it reaches the fully developed stage, characterized by a significant increase in heat release rates. This stage is marked by a fully engaged combustion process where the fire has reached a peak intensity. Finally, the decay stage occurs when the fire runs out of fuel, oxygen, or other critical elements, leading to a decrease in its intensity and eventual extinguishment.

Understanding these stages is critical for firefighters as it informs tactics for fire suppression and helps predict fire behavior within various environments. Each of these stages highlights the dynamics of fire growth and decline, underscoring the importance of timing and knowledge in effective firefighting strategies.