In which stage does a fire grow from small flames to a full fire involving an entire area?

The correct answer is indicative of the process of fire growth. The stage in which small flames grow into a full fire that engulfs an entire area is known as the fully developed stage. This stage represents a critical point in a fire's lifecycle where it has reached its maximum intensity and size, consuming available fuel and oxygen.

In contrast, the incipient stage represents the initial moments of a fire when it is just beginning to ignite, characterized by small flames and limited spread. The smoldering stage typically involves lower temperatures and slower growth, often without visible flames, and occurs after the initial flame has died down but prior to full development. The extinguished stage signifies the fire has been completely put out, returning to a state where there is no combustion taking place.

Understanding these stages is essential for effective fire safety and alarm system management, as they inform the appropriate response strategies and interventions to minimize risks in settings like homeless shelters.