Tactical Consideration: Pushing Fire

It has been taught that all hose streams can push fire. That is not accurate. Pressure is needed to create the push; therefore, it is stream choice and nozzle movement that impact whether or not fire can be pushed. Additionally, there must be a flow path and oxygen available downstream of the fire in order to push fire. Effective cooling of the fire compartment always reduces the potential for moving the fire as the fire gases are cooled below the ignition temperature, contracting as they cool.