Why is fire put off if sand is poured on it?

Pouring sand on a fire helps extinguish it by smothering the flames and cutting off the fire's oxygen supply. Fire requires three elements to burn: heat, fuel, and oxygen, known as the fire triangle. The sand creates a barrier that prevents oxygen from reaching the flames while also absorbing heat, effectively cooling the fire and stopping combustion. Additionally, the weight of the sand can help to physically suppress the flames.