What are the key components of the fire tetrahedron?

The fire tetrahedron is a model used to describe the four essential components required for combustion to occur. These components are heat, fuel, oxygen, and a chemical reaction.

Heat initiates the combustion process and raises the temperature of the fuel to its ignition point. Fuel provides the material that will burn, while oxygen, a key component of air, supports the combustion process. Finally, the chemical reaction itself refers to the exothermic reaction that occurs when the fuel combines with oxygen, resulting in flames.

Understanding the fire tetrahedron is crucial for firefighters and anyone involved in fire safety, as eliminating any one of these components will effectively extinguish a fire. For example, removing heat through cooling, depleting fuel, or cutting off the oxygen supply can stop the combustion process. This foundational knowledge helps in implementing firefighting strategies and ensuring safety.