Glossary

The process of assessing a building’s structure, systems, and safety features to ensure they meet regulatory standards and are free from fire hazards. Regular inspections help maintain safety and compliance.

Laws and ordinances that outline the requirements for construction, renovation, and maintenance of buildings, with a focus on ensuring fire safety and structural integrity.

A tactic used in wildfire management where crews work incrementally from a secure position toward the active fire edge. This method helps maintain control and minimize the risk to firefighters.

The systematic examination of burn patterns and fire damage to determine how a fire spread, its point of origin, and potential causes. Burn analysis is a key aspect of fire investigation.

The assessment of the type and extent of damage caused by fire on various materials. This analysis helps fire investigators determine the fire's origin, spread, and intensity.

Physical traces left behind by a fire, such as char patterns, melted materials, and smoke residues. Analyzing burn evidence helps investigators determine the fire's cause, spread, and intensity.

Damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by heat, chemicals, or electrical burns. In fire investigations, the type and pattern of burn injuries can provide insight into the fire's behavior and point of origin.

The examination of burn injuries to identify their cause, severity, and relation to a fire incident. This type of analysis can provide important clues in arson cases or fire investigations involving casualties.

The specific configuration of charring and fire damage on materials, which helps investigators identify the fire's origin and spread. Burn patterns can indicate factors such as direction of fire movement and points of highest heat.

Multiple burn marks or damage configurations in a fire scene that collectively provide clues about the fire's behavior, origin, and intensity. Analyzing these patterns is a critical part of fire investigation.

A temporary restriction imposed by authorities to prevent open burning activities, usually due to high fire risk conditions such as drought or high winds. Burning bans are put in place to reduce the likelihood of uncontrolled fires.

The environmental and fuel-related factors that influence the ignition, spread, and behavior of a fire. These conditions include humidity, wind speed, fuel moisture, and ambient temperature.

A numerical scale used to indicate the potential fire behavior in a given area, based on current and predicted fire weather conditions. The index helps firefighters and fire managers assess fire danger levels.

The time of day when a fire's intensity and spread are typically at their peak, usually occurring in the afternoon when temperatures are highest and humidity is lowest. Understanding the burning period is crucial for effective firefighting strategies.

The temperature at which a material ignites and continues to burn without an external flame. Knowing the burning points of various materials helps in assessing fire risk and prevention.

The speed at which a material combusts, releasing heat and gases. The burning rate depends on the type of fuel, its state (solid, liquid, or gas), and environmental factors.

A controlled tactic where firefighters allow a fire to consume the remaining fuel between the fire line and the advancing fire to prevent further spread. This technique helps create a buffer and secure the fire perimeter.

A type of safety device used to protect electrical circuits from overcurrent by melting and breaking the circuit when the current exceeds a safe level. A blown fuse may indicate electrical issues contributing to a fire.

A designation awarded to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and competence in investigating fires and explosions. Certification helps establish credibility and expertise in legal and investigative settings.

The process by which a fire investigator becomes certified as a CFEI, typically involving training, examination, and adherence to industry standards. This certification is recognized in courts and investigations to validate expertise.

The guidelines and practices that CFEI-certified investigators follow to ensure thorough and accurate fire and explosion investigations. These standards help maintain consistency and reliability in investigative work.

A professional certification for individuals who have completed specialized training in fire investigation and have demonstrated the ability to determine the origin and cause of fires. This certification is often recognized by fire service agencies and legal systems.

The process of becoming a Certified Fire Investigator, which typically involves coursework, examination, and practical experience in fire investigation techniques and standards.

The process of heating a material to a high temperature to induce thermal decomposition. In fire investigations, calcination of building materials, such as gypsum, can indicate exposure to prolonged high heat.

The process where gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate) loses water content when exposed to high heat, turning into anhydrous calcium sulfate. This transformation can help investigators estimate fire temperatures and intensity.

A unit of measurement for energy, defined as the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius. Calories are often used to quantify the energy release during combustion.

A device used to measure the heat energy released during combustion or other exothermic reactions. This tool can help in fire analysis and the assessment of material flammability.

A small outdoor fire used for cooking, warmth, or recreation. Campfires can pose a risk of starting wildfires if not properly managed or extinguished.

The phenomenon where flames travel up the trunk of a tree or column of vegetation, resembling the flame of a candle. This effect can indicate a fire moving from ground-level fuels to aerial fuels, contributing to fire spread.

A trained dog and its handler that work together in fire investigations to detect the presence of accelerants or other substances that might indicate arson. Canine-handler teams are highly effective at identifying trace evidence that may not be immediately visible.

The upper layer of foliage formed by the crowns of trees and other tall plants. The density of a canopy can influence fire behavior, as fires reaching this level can spread rapidly through aerial fuels.

A chemical element that is a major component of organic materials and a fundamental part of fire fuels. When combusted, carbon can produce heat, light, and various combustion byproducts, such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.

A fine black powder composed of elemental carbon, often formed as a residue from incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons. It can be found in soot and smoke and may be used as evidence in fire investigations.

A colorless, odorless gas produced as a byproduct of combustion. It is non-flammable and often used in fire suppression systems because it displaces oxygen, thereby smothering the fire.

A colorless, odorless, and highly toxic gas produced during incomplete combustion of carbon-based materials. High levels of carbon monoxide are dangerous to humans and can be a key indicator of fire behavior and ventilation conditions in fire investigations.

The accumulation of carbon monoxide gas in an enclosed space due to inadequate ventilation or incomplete combustion. This buildup poses significant health risks and can indicate the presence and behavior of a fire.

A fire that occurs in the cargo area of a ship, aircraft, or truck. Cargo hold fires can be particularly dangerous due to the presence of various types of flammable or hazardous materials.

An emissions control device in vehicles that reduces harmful gases by catalyzing redox reactions. Catalytic converters can become extremely hot and may be a potential ignition source for fires under certain conditions.

Cathode material is the substance used as the positive electrode in a battery, where it accepts electrons during discharge and facilitates the flow of current. It greatly influences the battery's energy density, performance, and overall efficiency, with common examples including lithium cobalt oxide and lithium iron phosphate.

The specific factor or action that initiates a fire. In fire investigations, determining the cause is essential for classifying the fire as accidental, incendiary, or natural.

A layer of hot gases and smoke that spreads out horizontally beneath the ceiling during a fire. The ceiling jet can help investigators understand fire dynamics, such as heat distribution and flame spread.

A process in battery management that ensures all individual cells within a battery pack maintain the same voltage level. Proper cell balancing helps prevent overheating and reduces the risk of thermal events or fires.

The phenomenon where a failure in one battery cell leads to a chain reaction affecting adjacent cells, potentially resulting in a fire. Battery pack designs often include safety measures to prevent this type of propagation.

A scale for measuring temperature where water freezes at 0 degrees and boils at 100 degrees under standard atmospheric pressure. Celsius is commonly used in fire investigation and analysis for temperature documentation.

An older term synonymous with the Celsius temperature scale. It is still occasionally used but has largely been replaced by the term "Celsius" in scientific and technical contexts.

The official recognition that an individual has met the required qualifications and training in a specific field, such as fire investigation or firefighting. Certifications often adhere to established industry standards.

A professional who has completed training and passed examinations in fire investigation, ensuring expertise in determining the origin and cause of fires. Certification is often granted by recognized organizations like the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI).

A unit of length used in fire management and land surveying, equal to 66 feet or approximately 20.12 meters. Chains are often used to measure distances in wildfire operations and mapping fire perimeters.

The documented and unbroken transfer of evidence from the scene of a fire to its presentation in court. Maintaining a clear chain of custody ensures that the evidence has not been tampered with and remains admissible in legal proceedings.

The burned residue of material that has undergone thermal decomposition but not complete combustion. Char patterns are analyzed to understand fire behavior, direction, and possible ignition sources.

Raised areas on charred surfaces that indicate the presence of intense heat. These blisters can help investigators determine the temperature and conditions of the fire at specific locations.

The black, carbon-rich residue that remains after incomplete combustion of organic materials. Charcoal can provide information about fire intensity and progression during an investigation.

The maximum safe speed at which a battery can be charged without causing overheating or damage. Exceeding the charge rate limit can lead to thermal runaway and potential fires.

The network of equipment and facilities used for recharging electric vehicles (EVs) and other battery-operated devices. Proper design and maintenance of charging infrastructure are essential for preventing electrical fires.

The proper containment and management of chemical substances to prevent accidental release, reaction, or fire. Safe chemical storage practices include labeling, segregation, and temperature control.

The phenomenon where hot air and gases rise through a vertical space, such as a shaft or chimney, drawing in cooler air from below. This effect can accelerate fire spread within buildings.

A partially burned piece of material that is lightweight and capable of being carried by the wind. Cinders can ignite new fires when they land on flammable surfaces, contributing to spot fires and the spread of wildfires.

An electrical safety device designed to interrupt the flow of current in an electrical circuit when it exceeds a safe level. Circuit breakers help prevent electrical fires by cutting off power in the event of an overload or short circuit.

Equipment, such as fuses or circuit breakers, used to protect electrical circuits from damage due to excessive current or faults. Proper use of these devices reduces the risk of electrical fires.

Indirect evidence that implies a fact but does not directly prove it. In fire investigations, circumstantial evidence may include burn patterns, the presence of accelerants, or witness testimony to suggest arson or accidental ignition.

A type of gas, such as natural gas or propane, used for heating and energy in urban areas. City gas leaks can be highly flammable and pose significant fire and explosion risks.

A fire condition where combustion is complete, resulting in minimal smoke and residue. Clean burns leave little evidence of soot or unburned fuel, making it harder to identify fire patterns and causes.

The official sealing off or restriction of an area after a fire for safety, investigation, or recovery purposes. Closure ensures that the fire scene is protected for analysis and prevents unauthorized access.

A set of standards or regulations that outline requirements for fire safety, building construction, and electrical systems. Compliance with codes helps prevent fires and ensure occupant safety.

A meteorological phenomenon characterized by the movement of cooler air into a region, often causing sudden weather changes. Cold fronts can affect fire behavior by shifting wind direction and speed, potentially increasing fire intensity and spread.

A method used in wildfire suppression where firefighters carefully inspect and extinguish any remaining hot spots along the fire perimeter by using water, soil, or other means. This helps prevent rekindling and ensures the fire is fully controlled.

A material or substance that is capable of catching fire and burning when exposed to heat or a flame. Combustible materials are classified based on their ignition temperature and fire behavior.

Finely divided particles of a combustible material that, when suspended in the air, can ignite and cause explosions. Dust explosions are a significant hazard in industries such as manufacturing, grain handling, and woodworking.

A device used to detect the presence and concentration of combustible gases in the air. It helps firefighters and safety personnel identify potential fire and explosion risks in confined or hazardous areas.

Liquids that can catch fire at temperatures above their flash point but below their boiling point. Examples include diesel fuel and some lubricating oils, which require careful storage and handling to prevent fire hazards.

Any substance that can ignite and sustain combustion, such as wood, paper, or fabric. Understanding the properties of combustible materials is crucial in fire safety and prevention.

Solid materials that can catch fire when exposed to sufficient heat or flame. These include organic materials like wood and synthetic materials like certain plastics.

A chemical reaction between a fuel and an oxidizing agent (typically oxygen) that releases heat and light. Combustion is the fundamental process behind fire and varies in intensity based on fuel type and environmental conditions.

The substances produced during the combustion process, including heat, light, smoke, gases (such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide), and particulate matter. The analysis of combustion products can help determine the type of fire and its behavior.

Chemical processes that occur during the burning of fuels, resulting in the release of energy. Complete combustion produces minimal pollutants, while incomplete combustion can lead to hazardous byproducts like carbon monoxide.

A group of senior personnel in the Incident Command System (ICS) responsible for various support roles in managing emergency incidents. Command staff typically include positions such as the Safety Officer, Liaison Officer, and Public Information Officer.

A strategic plan developed by communities in wildfire-prone areas to reduce the risk of wildfires and increase community resilience. CWPPs outline strategies for vegetation management, public education, and emergency response.

The legal assessment of whether a witness is qualified to testify in court based on their knowledge, experience, or relation to the case. In fire investigations, witness competency may affect the credibility of testimony regarding fire causes.

An ignition source that has sufficient heat energy and duration to ignite a particular type of fuel under given conditions. Determining whether an ignition source is competent is crucial in assessing fire causation.

A group of multiple wildfires burning in close proximity that are managed as a single incident. Fire complexes often require coordinated efforts from multiple firefighting agencies.

A simulation technique used to analyze fluid flow and heat transfer, including the movement of smoke and fire spread within a structure. This modeling helps investigators understand fire dynamics and predict fire behavior.

The moisture content, type, and state of vegetation in an area, which influences how a fire spreads. Dry, dead vegetation poses a higher fire risk compared to lush, green vegetation.

The transfer of heat through a material without the movement of the material itself. Conduction plays a role in fire spread through walls, floors, and other building components.

An extensive and destructive fire that spreads rapidly over a large area, often causing significant damage to buildings, forests, or urban areas. Conflagrations require large-scale firefighting efforts and pose severe risks to life and property.

The process in which fire burns through available fuel until it is completely reduced to ash or residue. The amount and type of fuel consumed can indicate the fire's intensity and progression.

The act of limiting the spread of a fire to prevent it from expanding beyond designated boundaries. Fire containment involves creating fire lines, using water or retardant drops, and other firefighting strategies.

A legally binding agreement between two or more parties outlining specific terms and responsibilities. In the context of fire management, contracts may involve agreements for firefighting services, equipment rentals, or mutual aid between agencies.

A contract involving illegal actions or purposes, considered inherently wrong by law. In the context of fire investigation, this could relate to agreements that violate safety codes or regulations.

A policy or agreement between an insurer and an insured party where the insurer agrees to compensate for losses covered under the terms of the policy. Fire insurance contracts cover damages resulting from fire incidents.

A barrier, natural or man-made, that is used to prevent a fire from spreading beyond a specific point. Control lines are constructed by removing vegetation, digging trenches, or using fire-retardant chemicals.

The process of managing a fire so that it no longer poses a threat to life or property. Fire control is achieved when the fire perimeter is secured, and all significant sources of fire activity are suppressed.

A planned and carefully monitored fire set intentionally for land management, such as reducing wildfire fuel, controlling pests, or managing ecosystems. Controlled burns help prevent larger, unplanned wildfires.

The transfer of heat through the movement of gases or liquids, such as hot air rising from a fire. Convection currents can spread fire and heat to upper levels of a structure or to nearby vegetation.

A mathematical formula to convert temperature measurements from Celsius to Fahrenheit: F=(C×95)+32F = (C \times \frac{9}{5}) + 32F=(C×59​)+32. This conversion is important for standardized reporting in fire investigations.

A fire that occurs on or around a conveyor belt system, often due to friction, overheating, or contact with flammable materials. Conveyor belt fires can quickly spread if not detected and managed early.

An organization or group that assists in fire management operations but does not have primary jurisdiction. Cooperating agencies may provide resources, personnel, or technical support during fire incidents.

A legal term referring to the "body of the crime"—evidence that proves a crime has been committed. In fire investigations, establishing corpus delicti involves showing that a fire was intentionally set and that a criminal act occurred.

A firefighting strategy where crews use fire to fight fire, working from a secure position and igniting controlled burns to reduce fuel in the path of an approaching wildfire. This method helps prevent the fire from spreading uncontrollably.

The formation of fine, irregular cracks on the surface of glass or ceramics due to rapid heating and cooling. Crazing patterns can be analyzed to understand the heat conditions during a fire.

The slow, smoldering spread of a fire along the ground, often through dense vegetation or duff. Creeping fires can go unnoticed for longer periods but still pose significant risks.