Which attribute of smoke can help determine the size and extent of the fire?

Volume of smoke is a crucial attribute in assessing the size and extent of a fire. When firefighters observe the volume of smoke, they can make informed decisions about the intensity and scale of the fire. A larger volume of smoke typically indicates a more significant fire, as more combustibles are burning and contributing to the smoke production. This understanding helps in determining the necessary resources and tactics needed for an effective response.

Moreover, analyzing smoke volume allows firefighters to gauge not just the current fire conditions but also the potential for the fire to grow or spread. In combination with other indicators such as velocity, density, and color, the volume of smoke provides valuable insights into the fire's behavior, but it is the sheer amount that most directly correlates with the size of the fire.