What term describes the situation where a hidden or smoldering fire reignites after crews have left?

The term "rekindle" accurately describes the situation where a hidden or smoldering fire reignites after firefighting crews have left the scene. This phenomenon occurs when the remaining heat and combustible materials are sufficient to start a new fire, despite the initial fire having been extinguished. It often happens if the fire was not thoroughly checked or if there were embers left undetected.

In firefighting, understanding this risk is critical for ensuring the area is safe after crews have departed. Strategies are typically implemented to mitigate this risk, such as ensuring that all materials are entirely cooled and that all areas are checked for hotspots.

While "re-ignite" may seem similar, it is less commonly used in firefighting terminology and can sometimes lack the specific context that "rekindle" provides regarding the aftermath of a fire. "Flashover" refers to a rapid spread of fire due to simultaneous ignition of combustibles in an area, which is not relevant in the context of a fire that has already been put out. "Combustion" refers to the chemical reaction that occurs when a material burns, and does not specifically pertain to the scenario of a previously extinguished fire reigniting.