What type of firefighting would shutting off ventilation typically be categorized under?

Shutting off ventilation is categorized under indirect firefighting because it aims to control the environment to prevent the fire from spreading or to reduce the fire's intensity rather than directly extinguishing the flames. By shutting down ventilation, you limit the supply of oxygen to the fire, which is a crucial element for combustion. This method does not involve direct application of water or fire retardants but instead relies on altering the conditions within the area to eventually suppress the fire or prevent its escalation.

Indirect firefighting techniques are particularly important in underground or confined spaces like mines, where direct access to a fire may be limited and conditions can quickly become hazardous for firefighters. Understanding the context and mechanics of indirect methods provides insight into how firefighters can efficiently manage emergencies even when direct action isn't immediately viable.