What suppression operation allows firefighters to cool a fire before entering?

A transitional attack is a suppression operation that involves applying water to the fire from a safe distance before entering the structure. This approach is particularly useful in situations where the fire is intense and poses a significant risk to firefighters. By cooling the fire and reducing heat and smoke before making entry, this tactic enhances the safety of the firefighters and improves visibility for their operations inside.

A transitional attack is commonly used when firefighters arrive on the scene and observe heavy smoke or high heat conditions. By first applying water from outside, it can help to mitigate the dangers of flashover and other rapid fire behaviors, creating a safer environment for further firefighting operations and potentially rescuing any trapped occupants.

The strategy differs from direct attacks, where firefighters immediately engage the fire, or indirect attacks, which may involve creating openings to ventilate smoke and heat. A defensive strategy focuses more on protecting exposures and preventing fire spread rather than directly attacking the flames. Thus, the transitional attack serves a critical role in effectively managing fire conditions before direct engagement.