What three elements constitute the Fire Triangle?

The three elements that constitute the Fire Triangle are oxygen, heat, and fuel. Each of these components plays a critical role in the combustion process.

Oxygen is essential for fire since it supports the chemical reactions that occur during burning. Typically, fires require an atmosphere with at least 16% oxygen; normal air contains about 21% oxygen, making it sufficient to sustain most fires.

Heat is the energy source that initiates and maintains combustion. It raises the temperature of the fuel to its ignition point, allowing the fire to start and continue. Without sufficient heat, the fuel will not reach the temperature needed for the combustion reaction to occur.

Fuel refers to any combustible material, whether solid, liquid, or gas. For a fire to burn, there needs to be a supply of fuel that can undergo combustion. This could be wood, gasoline, cloth, or any other substance capable of igniting and sustaining a fire.

The other options presented do not include all three necessary components for a fire to occur. Water, smoke, or fire itself are not foundational elements of the Fire Triangle but rather can be effects of fire or methods of fire suppression.