What is the term for applying water directly to the base of burning material?

The term for applying water directly to the base of burning material is referred to as a direct attack. This method is crucial in firefighting because it allows firefighters to directly target the source of the flames, helping to quickly cool the burning material and suppress the fire. By applying water at the base, firefighters can effectively disrupt the combustion process, which is essential for extinguishing the fire and preventing it from spreading. This technique is particularly effective in situations where the fire is contained, and direct access to the fire is possible.

Understanding this method is vital for the safety and efficiency of firefighting operations, as it emphasizes a proactive approach to fire control. In contrast, methods like indirect attack may involve applying water from a distance or from another angle, which is less effective in halting the flames immediately at the source. The other choices—surround and drown and flashover control—focus on different techniques or scenarios in fire management that do not specifically involve the direct application to the burning material.