In relation to fire suppression, what does the term "overhaul" refer to?

Overhaul refers specifically to the process of searching for hidden fires that may not be immediately visible after the main fire has been extinguished. This step is crucial because it helps to ensure that there are no remaining hotspots that could reignite and lead to a flare-up. During overhaul, firefighters check areas that were not directly affected by the flames but could still harbor embers or smoldering materials, such as wall cavities, attics, and other concealed spaces.

This phase of fire suppression emphasizes the importance of thoroughness in fire safety. It's not just about extinguishing the visible flames; it's about ensuring complete safety and preventing any potential resurgence of the fire. Proper overhaul can significantly reduce the risk of a rekindling, thus protecting the structure and ensuring that the fire incident is fully under control.

The other options, while they pertain to facets of fire response, do not accurately describe the specific focus of overhaul. The initial attack on the fire describes the phase where the main fire is tackled directly. Cleaning up debris refers to the post-fire site management, and restoration of the site involves repairing or rebuilding after a fire incident. None of these fully capture the essence of the overhaul process, which is centered on discovering and eliminating any overlooked fire threats.