What is the decay phase in fire development?

The decay phase in fire development is characterized by the reduction in the intensity of the fire as it consumes the available fuel and oxygen. During this phase, the fire starts to lose heat and energy because the combustible materials are either burned up or oxygen levels are diminishing, which limits the fire's ability to sustain itself.

As the available resources deplete, the combustion process slows down, leading to a gradual decrease in temperature and flames. The transition into the decay phase typically follows the growth phase, where the fire has already reached a peak and is now beginning to die down. Understanding this phase is crucial for firefighters, as it affects tactical decisions regarding suppression methods and the overall approach to managing the situation effectively.