Which of the following is an essential step before igniting an oil fire?

Before igniting an oil fire, confirming the oil type and its flash point is crucial because it provides vital information about the safety and the appropriate handling of the oil. The flash point is the temperature at which oil vapors can ignite when exposed to an open flame. Different types of oils have different flash points, which means that knowing these properties can help prevent dangerous incidents. If the oil is not handled correctly, it could result in a fire that spreads uncontrollably.

This understanding plays a critical role in maintaining safety protocols while working with flammable materials. Additionally, adjusting the temperature to high or using inappropriate ignition methods like a standard match without understanding the specific type of oil could lead to potential dangers. While having a fire extinguisher nearby is always a good safety practice, it does not address the critical preparatory steps required before igniting any combustible substance.