Which best describes the method of "temperature reduction" in extinguishing a fire?

The method of "temperature reduction" in extinguishing a fire primarily involves applying water or other coolants to lower the temperature of the burning materials. Water absorbs heat effectively, which serves to cool the flames and the surfaces in contact with the fire. By bringing the temperature below the ignition point of the combustible materials, the fire is extinguished. This is a direct and widely used method in firefighting because it addresses one of the essential elements of the fire triangle—heat.

When examining the other options, they focus on various tactics that can be employed in firefighting but do not primarily aim at reducing temperature. For instance, removing the oxygen source is a method related to suffocation, while using fire blankets involves smothering the fire. Creating a barrier to contain the fire is related to preventing its spread rather than extinguishing it directly through cooling. Therefore, applying water or coolants is the most accurate description of temperature reduction as a fire extinguishing method.