The _______ method consists of lofting a foam stream into the air above a fire and letting it fall down gently onto the burning surface.

The rain-down method involves directing a foam stream into the air, allowing it to disperse and fall gently onto the burning material or surface below. This technique is effective for suppressing fires, especially in situations where the fire is producing significant heat or smoke. By lofting the foam, it can cover a broader area and create a blanket over the fire, cutting off the oxygen supply essential for combustion.

This method is particularly useful for large-scale fires, as it maximizes the foam's effective coverage while minimizing the risk of the operator getting too close to the heat of the fire. The gentle descent of the foam helps to ensure that it maintains its integrity while reaching the flaming surface, which enhances its ability to cool and smother the fire effectively.

Other methods, while they may have specific applications, do not utilize this lofting technique, making the rain-down method distinct in its approach to fire suppression.