Which term corresponds to removing heat to extinguish a fire?

• A. Smother
• B. Cool
• C. Starve
• D. Ventilate

Answer: (B)

Cooling is the process of removing heat from the fire to halt combustion. By applying a cooling agent like water, a large amount of energy is absorbed as the material heats and turns to steam, quickly dropping the flame and surrounding temperatures. When the temperature falls below the fuel’s ignition point, the chemical reactions in the flame can’t be sustained and the fire goes out.

Other methods target different elements: smother cuts off oxygen, starve removes the fuel source, and ventilate helps remove heat and smoke from the space by changing air flow. But only cooling directly reduces the heat content to stop the fire, making it the best fit for removing heat to extinguish a fire.