What is fire suppression?

Fire suppression refers specifically to the actions taken to extinguish a fire or manage its growth and spread. This can involve a variety of methods, including the use of water, chemical agents, or other tools to eliminate the fire's fuel sources or to cool the burning materials. Effective fire suppression is critical in minimizing damage to property and ensuring the safety of individuals in the vicinity of the fire.

The practice of fire suppression is distinct from preventing future fires, which is more aligned with fire prevention strategies. While training firefighters is essential for effective suppression, the process itself is separate from the act of extinguishing fires. Reporting fire incidents is also important for record-keeping and analysis but does not directly involve the physical control or extinguishing of fires. Thus, the definition of fire suppression is best captured by the act of extinguishing or controlling the spread of fire.