What is the first step to extinguish a fire?

The first step to extinguish a fire involves removing any element of the fire tetrahedron, which consists of heat, fuel, oxygen, and a chemical reaction. By eliminating at least one of these elements, the fire can be effectively controlled or extinguished.

For instance, if you remove the fuel source, the fire cannot sustain itself. Similarly, if you can remove or reduce the oxygen available to the fire, you can inhibit its ability to burn. This approach is fundamental in firefighting strategies, as understanding and manipulating the fire tetrahedron is key to controlling and extinguishing fires effectively.

While evacuating personnel is critical for safety in the event of a fire, it does not directly address extinguishing the fire itself. Applying water can be effective, but if the fire is fueled by flammable liquids or is in a certain stage, it might not be the first or the best action to take without addressing the causes through elimination of tetrahedron elements. Increasing the temperature, of course, would only exacerbate the situation.