How many sides of a fire must command consider to prevent extension?

Considering the various aspects of fire behavior and spread, command must take into account multiple sides of a fire to effectively prevent its extension. A typical fire environment requires an understanding of the fire's location, the surrounding structures, environment, and any potential fuel sources.

In this context, assessing seven sides involves recognizing each critical aspect that can influence the fire's behavior. The concept often includes the fire's front, flanks, rear, and any vertical influences that may come from the building's structure, such as ceilings or smoke above. Additionally, the layout of the incident, access points, nearby hazards, and physical barriers must be evaluated. This comprehensive assessment allows command to implement strategies that reduce the likelihood of the fire spreading beyond its current boundaries.

The reason for considering a higher number, like seven sides, is rooted in the complexity of fire dynamics and the various conditions that affect fire behavior, further enabling a robust tactical approach to firefighting scenarios.