Glossary

Various techniques used by accelerant detection canines and their handlers to effectively identify traces of accelerants. Methods include systematic search patterns and thorough training protocols to ensure accuracy.

A scale of temperature measured relative to absolute zero, where all thermal motion of particles theoretically ceases. The Kelvin scale is commonly used for absolute temperature in scientific contexts.

Any substance or mixture that increases the rate of combustion when introduced to a fire. Accelerants are often used in arson incidents to spread fire quickly and enhance its intensity.

Specially trained dogs used in fire investigations to detect trace amounts of accelerants. These canines can pinpoint specific locations where accelerants may have been used, aiding investigators in determining fire origins and causes.

The means or opportunity to enter or approach a fire scene. In firefighting, maintaining clear access routes is critical for rapid response and safe operations.

An unplanned and unexpected event that results in damage, injury, or loss. In fire investigations, the term is used to describe incidents where fire ignition was unintentional and not due to malicious activity.

A highly flammable hydrocarbon gas commonly used as a fuel for welding and cutting. Acetylene poses a fire and explosion hazard due to its unstable nature under certain conditions.

A toxic, flammable compound released during the combustion of organic materials. It is known for its pungent odor and can be dangerous if inhaled, posing serious risks during firefighting operations.

A system designed to detect and respond to a fire by suppressing or controlling it, such as sprinklers and fire alarms. Active fire protection works in conjunction with passive systems to enhance overall building safety.

A fire that is moving forward or spreading due to wind, slope, or fuel conditions. Understanding the behavior of an advancing fire is critical for strategic firefighting efforts and containment planning.

Vegetation that is located above the ground level, such as tree branches, leaves, and vines. These fuels can allow a fire to climb from the ground and spread into the canopy, increasing the potential for a crown fire.

A notification or signal indicating the presence of a potential or active fire threat. Alerts can range from local community warnings to official government-issued fire advisories.

The designated location or point at which a fire watch or warning is triggered. It serves as a threshold for taking specific precautionary measures to ensure public and firefighter safety.

A type of hydrocarbon compound characterized by carbon and hydrogen atoms arranged in straight chains, branched chains, or non-aromatic rings. Aliphatic compounds, such as alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes, are known for their flammability and are commonly found in fuels and solvents used in various fire scenarios.

The formation of a cracked, scale-like char pattern on the surface of burned materials. This phenomenon can help fire investigators determine the heat level and direction of fire spread.

The surrounding environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure. Ambient conditions can influence fire behavior, including ignition and rate of spread.

The maximum amount of electric current a conductor or device can carry before overheating. Understanding ampacity is crucial in assessing potential electrical faults and fire risks.

The strength of an electric current measured in amperes (amps). High amperage levels can indicate potential fire hazards, especially if wiring or circuits are not properly rated.

The unit of electric current, defined as one coulomb per second. This measure is fundamental in evaluating electrical systems in the context of fire investigations and safety assessments.

The process of heating and then cooling a material, typically metal, to reduce its hardness and increase its ductility. In fire investigations, annealed metals may indicate exposure to high temperatures over a sustained period.

A diagram or representation showing the locations and paths of electrical arcing within a structure or electrical system. Arc maps help fire investigators trace the origin of an electrical fire.

The melting of materials caused by an electrical arc, which can result in molten metal droplets and potential fire hazards. Arc melting may leave distinct patterns useful in fire analysis.

The specific location where an electrical arc occurs. Identifying the arc site is essential for understanding the fire's origin in cases involving electrical failures.

The examination and documentation of all instances of electrical arcing within a fire scene. This process helps establish whether electrical issues contributed to the fire's ignition.

The discharge of electrical energy that jumps between two conductive surfaces, often accompanied by intense heat and light. Arcing can result in fire ignition if nearby flammable materials are present.

The phenomenon where an electrical arc passes through a charred, non-conductive surface, reigniting it or producing further heat. This condition can be critical in fire investigations involving electrical faults.

The specific location where a fire started. Determining the area of origin is a fundamental step in fire investigation and helps identify the cause of the fire.

A type of hydrocarbon compound characterized by its stable ring-like molecular structure. Aromatic compounds can be flammable and are relevant in understanding the properties of certain accelerants.

A burn pattern resembling an arrow, often used by investigators to determine the direction of fire spread. Arrow patterns can provide insight into the fire's progression and point of origin.

The intentional act of setting fire to property, often with malicious intent. Arson is a criminal offense, and investigations focus on identifying evidence to determine intent and responsible parties.

The designated organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing fire safety codes and regulations. The AHJ can include fire marshals, building inspectors, or other officials.

The lowest temperature at which a material will spontaneously ignite without an external ignition source. This temperature varies for different materials and is crucial for fire prevention and safety.

The spontaneous ignition of a substance without an external flame or spark due to heat buildup. This process can occur when a material reaches its autoignition temperature under specific conditions.

A type of explosion that occurs when a vessel containing a pressurized liquid is heated until the liquid reaches its boiling point, causing the vessel to rupture and release vapor explosively. BLEVEs are highly dangerous and often result in intense fireballs.

British Thermal Unit (BTU) is a common unit for measuring energy in the context of heating and fire behavior. The BTU is essential for understanding the energy output of various fuels and the potential intensity of a fire.

A dangerous explosion that occurs when oxygen is suddenly introduced into an enclosed space filled with combustible gases and low oxygen levels. Firefighters are trained to recognize the signs of potential backdrafts to prevent injury.

A dangerous explosion that occurs when oxygen is suddenly introduced into an enclosed space filled with combustible gases and low oxygen levels. Firefighters are trained to recognize the signs of potential backdrafts to prevent injury.

A controlled fire intentionally set by firefighters to consume fuel in the path of an advancing wildfire. This technique helps slow or stop the spread of the main fire and is an essential part of wildfire management.

A fire that spreads against the wind or downslope, moving slower but with high intensity at its base. This type of fire behavior is an important consideration for fire containment and firefighting strategies.

A portable firefighting tool consisting of a water tank worn on the back with a hand pump for spraying water or fire suppressant. It is used to extinguish small fires and hotspots, especially in wildland firefighting.

A collapsible bucket attached to a helicopter for aerial firefighting, capable of carrying and dropping large amounts of water onto fires. This tool is used to target areas that are difficult to access by ground crews.

A set of tests conducted to determine how a battery reacts to conditions beyond its normal operation, such as extreme temperatures, overcharging, puncturing, and impact. These tests help assess the potential for battery fires and explosions.

A situation where a battery loses its ability to store and release energy effectively, which can lead to overheating, leakage, or fire hazards. Capacity failure can result from aging, poor design, or extreme operational conditions.

The outer shell of a battery cell that protects its internal components. If damaged or compromised, the casing can leak or overheat, potentially leading to a fire.

The condition in which a battery cell's temperature rises beyond safe levels, posing a risk of thermal runaway and fire. This overheating can be caused by overcharging, high ambient temperatures, or internal failures.

The specific combination of chemical materials used in a battery to store and release energy. Different chemistries, such as lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, and lead-acid, have unique characteristics and safety profiles relevant to fire risk assessment.

The process or system used to regulate the temperature of battery cells and packs to prevent overheating and potential fires. Battery cooling can involve liquid or air-based systems to maintain safe operating temperatures.

The gradual reduction in a battery’s ability to hold and deliver charge over time, often due to repeated cycles of charging and discharging. Degraded batteries are more susceptible to failures that can lead to overheating or fire.

Safety features designed to prevent the battery from discharging beyond its safe capacity. Over-discharge can damage the cells and potentially lead to overheating or fire.

A protective housing for battery cells or modules designed to contain any thermal, electrical, or chemical events that may occur. Properly designed enclosures are critical for fire safety and prevention.

A large-scale energy storage solution that uses batteries to store and release electrical energy. BESS installations are essential for grid management but require stringent fire safety measures due to the risk of thermal incidents.

A violent rupture or failure of a battery, often caused by overheating, overcharging, or internal damage. Battery explosions can release hazardous chemicals and pose significant fire risks.

Any malfunction or breakdown of a battery that affects its performance or safety. Battery failure can manifest as overheating, reduced capacity, leakage, or thermal runaway, potentially leading to a fire.

The different ways in which a battery can malfunction, such as short circuits, thermal runaway, electrolyte leakage, and mechanical damage. Identifying these failure modes is crucial for mitigating fire hazards in battery applications.

The use of barriers, insulation, and specialized materials to prevent a fire originating from a battery from spreading. Effective containment strategies are critical for safety in electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and large-scale energy storage systems.

A simulated exercise to train individuals on how to respond to a battery fire incident. These drills ensure that safety personnel and users know how to act quickly and effectively to mitigate risks and damage.

Measures taken to reduce the risk of battery fires, such as temperature monitoring, proper charging protocols, and the use of safety circuits. Prevention strategies are essential for both consumer and industrial battery applications.

A specialized foam used to extinguish battery fires by cooling and smothering the flames. This foam is designed to counter the unique properties of battery fires, which can reignite due to thermal runaway.

The process of investigating battery failures to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences. Analysis may involve examining battery components, usage data, and environmental conditions.

The use of heat-resistant materials around battery cells or packs to prevent overheating and maintain safe operation. Proper insulation is crucial for preventing fire propagation within battery systems.

The practice of separating individual battery cells or modules to prevent electrical and thermal interactions. Isolation can prevent a failing cell from affecting adjacent cells, reducing the risk of fire spread.

A device or mechanism designed to disconnect a faulty battery from the rest of the system to prevent further damage or fire. Isolation units are key safety features in battery management systems.

The escape of electrolyte or other internal fluids from a battery, often due to physical damage, overcharging, or manufacturing defects. Leakage can lead to short circuits and pose a fire hazard.

An electronic system that monitors and controls the charging and discharging of a battery to ensure safe and efficient operation. A BMS helps prevent conditions that can lead to battery failure and fire.

A grouping of battery cells connected together to form a single unit. Modules are used in larger battery packs and are designed to enhance performance and manage risks, including fire prevention.

The condition where a battery is discharged beyond its designed minimum voltage level, potentially causing irreversible damage and safety risks. Over-discharge can lead to cell degradation and fire hazards.

The configuration and construction of a battery pack, including its cells, modules, and safety features. Effective design aims to optimize performance and minimize risks such as overheating and fire.

The protective casing that holds the components of a battery pack. The housing is designed to prevent damage from external impacts and contain any internal incidents such as thermal runaway or fires.

Physical damage to a battery cell or pack that can lead to internal short circuits and potential fire hazards. Battery punctures can result from accidents, improper handling, or manufacturing flaws.

The process of reclaiming and reusing materials from used or damaged batteries to reduce environmental impact and manage hazardous waste. Safe recycling practices help mitigate fire risks associated with battery disposal.

Established guidelines and regulations to ensure the safe design, use, and disposal of batteries. Compliance with these standards helps prevent failures and fire incidents in consumer and industrial applications.

A thin, permeable layer inside a battery that keeps the positive and negative electrodes apart while allowing the flow of ions. If damaged or compromised, a separator failure can lead to internal short circuits and fires.

A safety feature designed to automatically disconnect a battery or reduce its output in the event of overheating or other dangerous conditions. This mechanism helps prevent thermal runaway and fire.

The expansion of a battery cell due to gas buildup caused by internal reactions or overcharging. Swelling can indicate a potential failure mode that may lead to leaks, overheating, or fire.

The process of continuously measuring the temperature of a battery to ensure it stays within safe operational limits. Monitoring helps prevent overheating and fire risks.

Protocols and procedures established for evaluating the safety, performance, and reliability of batteries under different conditions. Standards such as those from UL or IEC are used to certify batteries for safe use.

Materials and techniques used to insulate battery cells or packs to control heat transfer. Effective thermal insulation helps prevent overheating and limits fire spread in case of a failure.

A self-sustaining, uncontrollable increase in temperature within a battery cell or pack that can lead to fire or explosion. Thermal runaway is a critical risk in battery safety, triggered by factors such as overcharging or internal damage.

The system or process designed to dissipate heat and release gases produced during the operation or failure of a battery. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent heat buildup and potential fire hazards.

The formation of small, rounded drops of molten metal that can occur during electrical arcing. Beading patterns can help fire investigators determine the direction and nature of an electrical fault.

A term referring to the behavior or characteristics of a fire, including its spread, intensity, and reaction to fuel and environmental conditions. Understanding fire behavior is essential for effective firefighting and prevention strategies.

A fire that occurs in the bilge area of a boat or ship, where fuel, oil, and other flammable materials can accumulate. Bilge fires are particularly dangerous due to limited space and potential for rapid spread.

The malfunction of a pump designed to remove water or other liquids from the bilge of a vessel. Failure of this pump can lead to water accumulation and increase the risk of fire due to submerged electrical components.

A substance used to hold or bond materials together, often found in composite or layered materials. In the context of fire, the flammability and behavior of binders can influence fire spread and intensity.

A flexible, portable container used to transport water for firefighting. Bladder bags can be used in areas where conventional water sources are not readily available.

The examination of an explosion's effects, including the pressure wave, damage patterns, and debris distribution. This analysis helps investigators determine the type and source of an explosive event.

The leading edge of the high-pressure wave produced by an explosion. This front can cause significant structural damage and influence the spread of fire in a blast scenario.

A sudden and rapid increase in fire intensity and spread, typically due to changes in weather conditions, fuel, or topography. Blow-ups are dangerous and can quickly overwhelm firefighting efforts.

The process of examining electrical wiring in boats to ensure it is in good condition and free from faults that could lead to electrical fires. Regular inspections are crucial for preventing onboard fire hazards.

The temperature at which a liquid changes to vapor when heated. Knowing the boiling points of various liquids is important in fire safety and prevention, as some flammable liquids can vaporize and ignite at relatively low temperatures.

The practice of electrically connecting two or more conductive objects to equalize their electrical potential and prevent static sparks. Proper bonding is essential in environments where flammable vapors are present.

A method used in fire investigations to narrow down the potential time frame of a fire’s ignition by analyzing available data and evidence. Bracketing helps investigators determine when the fire likely started.

The shattering effect of an explosive and its ability to break surrounding materials. Brisance is a key factor in differentiating between high and low explosives in a fire or explosion investigation.

A unit of measurement for heat energy, defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. BTUs are used to quantify energy output and fire intensity.

Vegetation such as small trees, shrubs, and undergrowth that can serve as fuel for a fire. The density and type of brush can significantly impact fire spread and behavior.

A fire that burns in low-lying vegetation such as grasses, shrubs, and small trees. Brush fires can spread rapidly, especially in dry and windy conditions, posing a risk to property and wildlife.

A firefighting method where water or fire retardants are released from a bucket suspended from a helicopter. Bucket drops are used to target and suppress specific areas of a fire, especially in hard-to-reach locations.

Areas of reduced vegetation or other fuel sources created to slow down or stop the spread of a fire. Buffer zones are commonly used in wildfire-prone areas as a preventive measure to protect communities and assets.

Regulations that specify the minimum standards for construction and design to ensure safety and prevent fire hazards. Compliance with building codes is essential for reducing the risk of fires in residential and commercial structures.

The set of practices, equipment, and structural measures designed to prevent fires in buildings and protect occupants if a fire occurs. This includes fire alarms, sprinkler systems, fire-resistant materials, and clear emergency exits.