In the decay phase of a fire, what is generally occurring?

In the decay phase of a fire, the amount of heat and energy available is significantly reduced. This phase follows the fully developed stage of a fire, where the fire has consumed most of the available fuel and sufficient oxygen. As a result, the temperature starts to drop, and the overall energy being produced by the combustion process decreases.

During this phase, although there may still be some active burning, it is typically at a much lower intensity compared to previous stages. The reduction in heat and energy can often lead to a more manageable fire situation, allowing firefighters to focus on extinguishment without the extreme hazards present in the peak phase. Understanding this phase is crucial for effective firefighting strategies, as it indicates that the fire is on the decline and requires appropriate methods to safely bring it to a complete end.