In which phase of fire development does smoke begin to accumulate?

The growth phase is the stage of fire development where smoke starts to accumulate significantly. During this phase, the fire transitions from a small flame to a larger, more vigorous fire. As the fuel ignites and begins to burn more rapidly, combustion generates various gases, particulates, and smoke, which begin to rise and fill the area above the fire.

This accumulation of smoke is critical as it can indicate the fire's intensity and the chance of it spreading. Moreover, in environments such as structures, the buildup of smoke can create hazardous conditions, limiting visibility and increasing the risk of inhalation injuries to occupants and responding firefighters. Understanding this phase is crucial for effective fire response and rescue strategies, as it helps predict fire behavior and assess risks associated with smoke and toxic gases during firefighting operations.