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The smoldering/decay stage of a fire is characterized by a significant reduction in the heat and flame intensity as the fire consumes its available fuel and experiences a decrease in oxygen levels. During this stage, the fire may produce smoke and glowing embers, but it lacks the vigorous flames seen in earlier stages.

When the available fuel is exhausted or the oxygen level drops below 16 percent, the fire transitions into the smoldering phase where it may continue to burn slowly without open flames. This is crucial as it marks a shift from an active burning process to one where fire suppression efforts can be more effective, as reducing the fuel or enhancing airflow can help extinguish the fire.

Understanding this stage is vital for fire safety and suppression strategies. It helps determine when surveillance might be necessary, as smoldering fires can reignite if conditions change. The definitions of the other stages do not align with the characteristics observed during the smoldering/decay stage.