What stage occurs when all combustible materials are involved in the fire?

The fully developed stage is characterized by the condition where all combustible materials in the area have ignited and are actively burning. At this point, the fire has reached its peak intensity and is consuming the available fuel rapidly. In this stage, the fire is characterized by high heat release rates, significant smoke production, and a well-established combustion process throughout the involved materials.

Understanding this stage is crucial for firefighters as it indicates the highest risk and the need for immediate strategic intervention to prevent the situation from worsening or to protect lives and property. Knowing that all combustible materials are involved can help predict the fire behavior and potential for further spread, informing tactical decisions such as suppression techniques and evacuation plans.