What safety procedure can reduce the risk of explosion in methane-rich environments?

Increasing air flow in methane-rich environments is a critical safety procedure because it facilitates the dilution of methane gas, which is a highly flammable substance. By enhancing the ventilation in an area, the concentration of methane can be significantly reduced, thereby lowering the risk of reaching an explosive limit. Proper ventilation ensures that fresh air is constantly introduced, which not only minimizes the accumulation of methane but also helps to disperse any potentially explosive gases.

While decreasing humidity, controlling temperature, and minimizing dust may contribute to overall safety in a mining environment, they do not directly address the specific risks associated with methane accumulation and potential explosion. Rather, increasing air flow provides a more targeted and effective response to the presence of methane, making it the strongest safety procedure among the options presented.