What should you do with smoldering materials to prevent additional damage if they reignite?

Soaking smoldering materials thoroughly is the most effective way to prevent any possibility of reignition. When materials are smoldering, they still have the potential to produce heat and generate combustion gases, which could lead to a fire restarting if not properly managed. By soaking them, you not only lower the temperature but also remove any residual heat that could cause the materials to ignite again. This method ensures that the materials are adequately cooled and thoroughly saturated, which significantly reduces the risk of fire propagation.

In contrast, covering smoldering materials with a tarp may contain the heat but does not effectively eliminate the risk of combustion, as they could continue to smolder beneath the cover. Placing them in a bucket might help isolate the materials, but it doesn’t guarantee that sufficient moisture is provided to extinguish any potential embers. Moving them to another room can spread the risk of fire; even if they seem contained, it's better to handle them in a way that fully extinguishes any possible flames or embers. Therefore, soaking materials is the safest and most effective approach to managing smoldering hazards.