What precaution should be taken during a mine fire in a gassy section?

During a mine fire in a gassy section, short circuiting the air is crucial because it helps to reduce the potential for an explosive atmosphere. In gassy environments, the presence of flammable gases poses significant risks during a fire, as these gases can ignite and exacerbate the fire. Short circuiting the air involves redirecting the airflow in a controlled manner to deprive the fire of the oxygen it needs to sustain combustion. This strategy aims to minimize the spread of the fire and the accompanying dangerous gases.

In contrast, circulating air widely might allow more oxygen to reach the fire, potentially worsening the situation. Applying extra water may help firefighting efforts but can be ineffective in highly gassy areas. Evacuating miners is certainly a priority for safety in any fire situation, but the immediate focus in a gassy section should be on controlling air flow to mitigate the risk of an explosion and enhance safety measures.