What stage comes after the ignition phase in fire development?

The stage that follows the ignition phase in fire development is the growth phase. During this stage, the fire begins to intensify and spread as the flames consume available fuel and oxygen. The growth phase is characterized by increasing heat release, which can lead to an escalation in the fire’s intensity and size.

In this phase, the fire transitions from a smoldering ignition to a more vigorous combustion process. The growth of the fire can lead to significant increases in temperature and the production of heat and smoke, making it vital for responders to recognize and respond effectively.

Understanding this progression is crucial for incident safety officers, as each phase of fire development presents different hazards and requires appropriate strategies for containment and suppression. Recognizing the growth phase allows for better tactical decisions to protect life and property effectively.