Which firefighting technique involves applying extinguishing agents without placing them directly on the fire?

The technique that involves applying extinguishing agents without placing them directly on the fire is known as the indirect attack. This method is particularly useful in situations where it is too dangerous to approach the fire directly or where the fire has developed significantly and is possibly more widespread.

In an indirect attack, firefighters will often use techniques that create an environment conducive to extinguishing the fire, such as cooling the gases or creating a barrier with a stream of water to protect exposed structures, rather than directly applying water to the flames. This allows for a more effective means of fighting the fire from a safer distance, reducing the risk of injury to firefighters and preventing the fire from worsening.

The indirect attack is typically employed in scenarios where the fire is in a growth stage and there is a need to control it before getting closer. This contrasts with direct and protective attack methods that involve more direct engagement with the fire and may not address the dangers posed by a rapidly spreading fire or create risks to personnel. Ventilation, while important in fire control, primarily focuses on managing the smoke and heat without directly extinguishing the fire itself.