What should be monitored for during the fire area assessment after extinguishment?

Monitoring for re-ignition during the fire area assessment after extinguishment is crucial because it helps to ensure that the fire has been fully extinguished and that there are no lingering hotspots that could reignite. Re-ignition can occur if embers or unburned fuel remain and are exposed to oxygen, which can lead to a resurgence of flames.

By focusing on re-ignition, firefighters can take necessary actions to cool down any remaining heat sources, apply additional water, or cover areas with fire-retardant materials to prevent flare-ups. It's part of a comprehensive safety protocol to protect both the responders and the surrounding environment from potential hazards that could arise from a fire that seems extinguished but is still capable of reigniting.