The fire triangle is a simple model that explains the three essential elements needed for a fire to ignite and sustain. These elements are heat, fuel, and oxygen. When these three components come together in the right conditions, a fire can start and continue to burn. To extinguish a fire, one of these elements must be removed. For example, using water can cool the heat, while smothering the fire can cut off the oxygen supply. Understanding the fire triangle is crucial for effective fire prevention and safety measures in various settings, including homes and workplaces.