How many phases does fire progress through?

Fire progresses through three distinct phases: the ignition phase, the growth phase, and the fully developed phase.

During the ignition phase, the fire starts with the combination of fuel, heat, and oxygen. This initial phase is critical as it marks the transition where materials reach their ignition temperature.

The growth phase follows as the fire begins to develop, fueled by the available materials. This phase is marked by an increase in heat release and the potential for rapid growth if there is sufficient fuel and ventilation.

Lastly, in the fully developed phase, the fire reaches its maximum intensity. At this point, it is consuming the available fuel at a high rate and producing significant heat and smoke.

Understanding these phases is crucial for firefighters to strategize their response to fires, anticipate changes in fire behavior, and effectively manage the incident.