Florida Fire State Practice Exam

In which stage is a fire that has used all its oxygen and fuel load?

1. Growth

2. Fully Developed

3. Decay

4. Flashover

The correct answer is: Decay

When a fire has reached the stage where it has used all its oxygen and fuel load, it is in the decay stage. During this phase, the intensity of the fire begins to decrease as it consumes the available resources necessary for combustion. The decay stage is characterized by a reduction in temperatures and the production of smoke, indicating that the fire is transitioning from an active burning phase to a more stable, smoldering condition. The oxygen supply becomes limited, leading to diminished flames and the potential for the fire to eventually be extinguished. This understanding is crucial, especially in firefighting, as recognizing the signs of a fire entering the decay stage can inform strategic decisions for suppression efforts and safety measures for firefighters on the scene.