During which fire stage is the maximum heat release rate achieved?

The fully developed stage is characterized by the maximum heat release rate achieved during a fire. At this stage, the fire has consumed most of the available fuel and has reached a point where it is producing the highest temperatures and flames. The growth stage precedes it and sees an increase in heat release as the fire spreads, but it doesn't reach the peak level of intensity observed during the fully developed stage. The initial stage involves the beginning of combustion, while the decay stage features a reduction in heat release rate as the fire begins to exhaust available fuels and cool down. Understanding these stages is crucial for effectively managing firefighting efforts and anticipating changes in the fire's behavior.