What are the three essential components of fire?

The three essential components of fire, often referred to as the "fire triangle," are oxygen, heat, and fuel. For a fire to ignite and sustain combustion, it requires these three elements.

Oxygen is crucial because it is a necessary component of combustion reactions. Most fires require at least 16% oxygen in the atmosphere to burn, which is significantly higher than the 21% oxygen level found in the air we breathe. Without a sufficient supply of oxygen, a fire cannot sustain itself.

Heat is the energy that raises the material to its ignition temperature. It can come from various sources such as friction, chemical reactions, or electrical sparks. Heat is needed to initiate the combustion process and keep the fire burning.

Fuel is any substance that can combust, such as wood, paper, gasoline, or other combustible materials. The type of fuel impacts the characteristics of the fire, including its heat output and potential hazards.

Understanding the fire triangle is fundamental in fire prevention and safety practices. By removing any one of these three elements, a fire can be extinguished or prevented from starting.