What phase comes immediately after the incipient phase in fire development?

The phase that comes immediately after the incipient phase in fire development is the growth phase.

In fire dynamics, the incipient phase is characterized by the initial ignition where the fire has just started and is typically small and limited in its effects. As the fire begins to consume available fuel and produce heat, it transitions into the growth phase. During this phase, the fire's size and intensity increase significantly as it spreads, fueled by the materials around it and the oxygen available in its environment.

Understanding the growth phase is essential for fire prevention and firefighting strategies, as this is when the fire can go from a manageable level to potentially uncontrollable, making it critical to address it promptly. Effective fire inspection practices include recognizing materials and conditions that might contribute to this rapid expansion during the growth phase, which informs better preventive measures and safety protocols in buildings and other environments.