During which stage does the fire begin to spread and produce more heat?

The Growth Stage is the correct answer because it is during this phase that the fire starts to actively spread and generate significant amounts of heat. After the incipient stage, where the fire begins with small, localized flames, the growth stage represents an escalation in fire activity. During this time, the conditions such as fuel availability and ventilation allow the fire to gain momentum, leading to increased temperature and the potential for the fire to extend to other combustible materials nearby.

Understanding fire dynamics during the growth stage is crucial for firefighters, as this is the time when decisions must be made promptly to prevent further spread and manage containment efforts effectively. Firefighters must recognize the signs of this stage to apply the appropriate suppression tactics, as the fire can quickly transition into the next phase, where it reaches full development, making control much more challenging.