What determines the method of fire attack chosen by firefighters?

The stage of fire development is crucial in determining the method of fire attack because different stages—such as incipient, growth, fully developed, and decay—dictate how a firefighter should approach the situation. In the incipient stage, where a fire has just started, a direct attack might be sufficient to extinguish it. As the fire progresses to the growth stage, firefighters may need to consider a more defensive strategy if the fire has spread and created greater hazards. During the fully developed stage, the fire may require advanced tactics such as coordinated ventilation or suppression techniques to manage the heat and smoke effectively.

In contrast, while the amount of available water, type of fuel involved, and size of the crew are all important factors, they are secondary to understanding the current state of the fire. The method of attack must align with the fire's behavior and its potential risks at any given moment. Therefore, recognizing the stage of fire development provides firefighters with a framework to select the most effective tactics for extinguishment and safety.