Which method involves cooling a fire?

The method that involves cooling a fire is focused on the principle of removing heat, which is one of the three elements required for combustion (heat, fuel, and oxygen). By cooling a fire, you effectively lower the temperature below the ignition point of the fuel, which helps to suppress the ongoing combustion process.

In practical terms, applying water to a fire is a common method of achieving this. Water absorbs the heat from the fire, thus reducing its temperature. This approach is particularly effective for certain types of fires, such as those involving ordinary combustibles.

The other methods mentioned, while also relevant to fire suppression, do not specifically involve the cooling aspect. Extinguishing generally refers to putting out a fire but does not clarify how that is achieved. Smothering involves cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply, which can effectively extinguish it but doesn’t remove heat. Similarly, removing fuel involves depriving the fire of combustible materials, rather than addressing the heat component directly.