Glossary

A condition where an engine exceeds its normal operating temperature, potentially leading to fire. Overheating can result from cooling system failures, fluid leaks, or excessive use under harsh conditions.

A fire occurring in the engine room of a vessel or industrial site, often involving fuel, oil, or electrical systems. Such fires require specialized firefighting techniques due to the confined space and potential for rapid heat buildup.

Electrical cables and circuits that power an engine’s components. Faulty or damaged engine wiring can be an ignition source for fires, particularly in vehicles and machinery.

The process by which air or gases are drawn into a flame or plume of hot gases. Entrainment affects fire behavior by supplying oxygen and influencing flame spread.

A situation in which firefighters or individuals are caught or surrounded by fire, making escape difficult or impossible. Entrapments can be life-threatening and require immediate rescue operations.

A process used to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of a proposed project or activity, such as prescribed burns or land development. EAs help ensure that fire management practices do not adversely affect ecosystems.

A detailed document that outlines the potential effects of a proposed action on the environment. EIS reports are required for major projects and include assessments of fire risks and mitigation measures.

The moisture level at which a material is in balance with the surrounding air, neither absorbing nor losing moisture. Understanding this content is crucial in fire behavior analysis, as drier fuels ignite more easily.

A pre-planned path that individuals can use to evacuate safely from a dangerous area during a fire. Identifying and maintaining clear escape routes are critical for fire safety and survival during emergencies.

A fire that breaks containment lines or spreads beyond the intended boundaries of a controlled burn, becoming uncontrolled. Escaped fires require immediate action to prevent further spread and potential damage.

The process of moving people away from a potentially hazardous area to a safer location due to an impending or active fire. Proper evacuation plans and procedures help minimize injury and loss of life.

Any material, documentation, or information used to support conclusions in a fire investigation. Evidence can include physical items, photographs, witness statements, and expert testimony.

The process of gathering, preserving, and documenting physical and digital evidence at the scene of a fire. Proper evidence collection is crucial for determining the cause and supporting potential legal proceedings.

A formal, recorded interview conducted as part of an insurance investigation, where an insured person answers questions related to a claim, including those about a fire incident. EUOs help insurers assess the validity of claims.

A formal, recorded interview conducted as part of an insurance investigation, where an insured person answers questions related to a claim, including those about a fire incident. EUOs help insurers assess the validity of claims.

An emergency situation that justifies immediate action, such as entry into a property, without the need for a search warrant. This concept is relevant in fire investigations where immediate access is necessary to prevent further damage or risk.

A chemical reaction that releases heat as it occurs. Combustion is an example of an exothermic reaction, which is central to understanding fire behavior and heat generation.

Data or findings obtained through controlled experiments or simulations to test hypotheses or theories related to fire behavior. Experimental evidence helps validate models and inform fire investigation conclusions.

Testimony provided by individuals with specialized knowledge or expertise relevant to a case, such as fire investigators or forensicexperts. Expert opinions help courts understand complex technical aspects of a fire.

A person qualified through education, training, or experience to provide expert opinions in legal cases. Fire investigators often serve as expert witnesses to explain fire origins and causes during trials.

A characteristic of a material or substance that indicates its potential to explode when certain conditions are met. Understanding what makes a substance explosible is crucial for preventing accidental explosions and managing fire risks.

A sudden and violent release of energy, often involving the rapid expansion of gases that generate a shock wave. Explosions can be chemical, physical, or nuclear in nature and are significant hazards in fire incidents.

The study of the behavior and effects of explosions, including shock waves, pressure, and the distribution of debris. This analysis helps investigators understand the cause and impact of explosions in fire-related incidents.

The potential for an explosion to occur under certain conditions, such as the presence of flammable gases, dust, or improper handling of explosive materials. Managing explosion risk is critical for safety in industrial and residential settings.

The potential for explosions to occur under certain conditions, such as the presence of flammable gases, dust, or improper handling of explosive materials. Managing explosion risks is critical for safety in industrial and residential settings.

Devices and equipment designed to operate safely in potentially explosive environments without igniting surrounding gases or dust. Explosion-proof equipment is essential in industries dealing with flammable substances.

The concentration range of a flammable gas or vapor in the air within which it can ignite or explode. Below the lower explosive limit (LEL), the mixture is too lean, and above the upper explosive limit (UEL), it is too rich to ignite.

Substances capable of undergoing a rapid chemical reaction that releases energy and gas, causing an explosion. Common examples include dynamite, gunpowder, and certain chemical compounds used in industry.

Chemical or mechanical compounds that produce sudden, violent expansions of gases when detonated or ignited. Explosives are used in construction, demolition, and mining, but can also pose significant fire and safety hazards.

The part of a material or structure that is directly exposed to fire or heat. The characteristics of an exposed surface, such as texture and composition, affect how it reacts to and transmits heat.

The condition of being subject to or affected by fire, heat, or smoke. In fire terms, exposure often refers to nearby buildings or structures at risk from an adjacent fire.

A fire incident that cannot be contained with initial resources within the first operational period, requiring additional support and strategic planning. These incidents often involve larger teams and extended resources.

To put out or stop a fire. Extinguishing a fire can be accomplished through various means, including the application of water, foam, or chemical agents to remove heat or interrupt the chemical reaction.

A fire exhibiting rapid growth and intense energy release, often influenced by strong winds, low humidity, and abundant fuel. Extreme fire behavior is dangerous and difficult to control, posing significant risks to firefighters and communities.

Unpredictable and fast-moving fire actions that can include crowning, spotting, and fire whirls. Understanding extreme fire behavior is crucial for safety and effective firefighting tactics.

Insurance claims filed to cover damages and losses sustained by factory owners due to fire or other insured risks. Investigating these claims often involves determining fire origin and causation.

A temperature scale used primarily in the United States, where the freezing point of water is 32°F, and the boiling point is 212°F under standard conditions. Fahrenheit measurements are used in fire reports and investigations in regions that use this system.

The measurement of temperature expressed in degrees Fahrenheit. This scale is often used for reporting weather conditions, building temperatures, and fire behavior in relevant regions.

The breakdown or malfunction of a component or system that can lead to a fire or worsen a fire incident. Failures can be mechanical, electrical, or structural in nature.

The systematic examination of failed components or systems to determine the root cause of their failure. In fire investigations, failure analysis is critical to identifying ignition sources and preventing future incidents.

The process of burnt or damaged materials falling from higher structures to lower levels during or after a fire. Fall down can create additional hazards and influence fire spread.

A firefighter or crew member who specializes in felling trees, especially during wildfire management, to create fire breaks and control fire spread. Fallers play a vital role in wildfire suppression and containment strategies.

An abnormal current flow caused by a fault, such as a short circuit or ground fault, in an electrical system. Fault currents can generate excessive heat and lead to electrical fires.

Electrical wiring that is damaged, improperly installed, or worn, increasing the risk of electrical faults and fires. Faulty wiring is a common cause of residential and commercial building fires.

A serious criminal offense that is more severe than a misdemeanor and is punishable by imprisonment or severe penalties. Arson is an example of a felony involving fire.

A person tasked with collecting on-site data regarding fire behavior, weather conditions, and fuel characteristics during an incident. Field observers play an essential role in informing fire management strategies.

Small, dry materials such as grasses, twigs, and leaves that ignite quickly and can spread fire rapidly. Fine fuels contribute to fast-moving surface fires and are an important consideration in wildfire behavior analysis.

Narrow extensions of a fire that project out from the main body. Fingers can create additional challenges for containment, as they spread fire further into unburned areas.

The measure of how long it takes for a fire to break through a material or surface. Finish ratings help assess the fire resistance of materials used in construction and interior finishes.

A rapid chemical reaction that produces heat, light, and various combustion products. Fire results from the interaction of heat, fuel, and oxygen, forming the "fire triangle."

Substances that are used to initiate or speed up the spread of fire. Accelerants such as gasoline, kerosene, and alcohol are often analyzed in fire investigations to determine if arson was involved.

A device that detects smoke, heat, or flames and alerts occupants to the presence of a fire. Fire alarms are essential safety features in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to facilitate timely evacuation.

A system of interconnected devices that detect smoke, heat, or flames and trigger a warning sound or alert. Fire alarms play a key role in preventing fire-related injuries and fatalities by providing early warning.

The study of how a fire started, spread, and behaved. Fire analysis includes examining burn patterns, heat sources, and fuel loads to determine the cause and progression of a fire.

The total space or surface area affected by a fire, used to assess the size and impact of the incident. Fire areas help responders plan containment and suppression strategies.

The manner in which a fire reacts to various conditions, such as fuel type, weather, and topography. Understanding fire behavior is critical for effective firefighting and fire management.

The examination of the factors that influence how a fire spreads and develops, including wind, fuel moisture, and terrain. Fire behavior analysis helps guide firefighting strategies and resource allocation.

A prediction of how a fire is likely to spread and react under specific conditions. Forecasts take into account weather data, fuel characteristics, and current fire activity to aid in planning and decision-making.

A professional with expertise in analyzing and predicting fire behavior based on environmental and fuel factors. These specialists are essential in large-scale fire management efforts for providing forecasts and strategic insights.

A gap in vegetation or other combustible material that acts as a barrier to slow or stop the spread of a fire. Fire breaks can be natural, like rivers or rocky terrain, or man-made, like cleared strips of land.

A storage facility or location that holds firefighting tools, equipment, and supplies for use during fire incidents. Fire caches are strategically placed to ensure quick access for firefighting teams.

The process of determining the initial source or reason for a fire's ignition. Fire causation investigations identify if the fire was accidental, natural, or intentional.

The specific action, event, or condition that leads to the ignition of a fire. Determining the fire cause is essential for investigations, safety recommendations, and legal accountability.

Regulations and standards designed to prevent fire hazards and ensure safety in buildings and facilities. Fire codes cover aspects such as building materials, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and emergency exits.

The act of stopping the forward progress of a fire by creating control lines or using suppression methods. Containment measures prevent the fire from spreading and allow for safer firefighting efforts.

A group of trained firefighters assigned to work together in fire suppression and management operations. Fire crews can include ground teams, engine operators, and specialized wildfire response units.

A numerical scale that indicates the potential risk of fire based on factors such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and fuel moisture. The index helps fire management teams assess and prepare for fire hazards.

The remnants of burned materials left after a fire, such as ash, charred wood, and melted metal. Analyzing fire debris can provide important clues about the fire's cause, intensity, and spread.

The examination of burned materials and residues to identify accelerants, ignition sources, and other evidence in fire investigations. This analysis can help determine whether a fire was accidental or intentional.

A public or private organization responsible for providing fire prevention, suppression, and emergency response services to a community or area. Fire departments are equipped with trained personnel and firefighting apparatus.

Specialized doors designed to withstand fire for a certain period, helping to contain the spread of flames and smoke. Fire doors are essential for maintaining safe egress routes and protecting building occupants.

The study of how fires develop, spread, and interact with their environment. Fire dynamics examines factors such as heat transfer, fuel properties, and ventilation to understand fire behavior.

The impact of fire on the environment, structures, and living organisms. Fire effects can range from beneficial ecological changes to destructive damage to property and ecosystems.

A portable device containing fire suppression agents, such as water, foam, or dry chemicals, used to put out small fires. Fire extinguishers are categorized based on the types of fires they are designed to combat.

Various types of portable devices used to extinguish small fires, classified by their suppression agent and the classes of fires they can handle (e.g., Class A for ordinary combustibles, Class B for flammable liquids).

A substance used to suppress or put out a fire, such as water, carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder, or foam. The choice of agent depends on the type of fire and the materials involved.

The leading edge of a moving fire where combustion is most intense. Understanding the fire front's behavior is crucial for strategic firefighting and containment efforts.

Gaseous byproducts produced during combustion, such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen cyanide. Fire gases can be toxic and contribute to the spread of smoke and heat.

Any condition or material that increases the likelihood of a fire starting or spreading. Fire hazards can include flammable materials, faulty electrical wiring, or poor ventilation.

Various factors that contribute to the risk of fire ignition and spread, such as the presence of combustible materials, improper storage of chemicals, or electrical malfunctions. Identifying fire hazards is key for prevention.

The potential fire risks associated with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These risks can include electrical faults, dust buildup, or malfunctioning components that may ignite fires.

The part of a wildfire that moves fastest and burns most intensely, driven by wind or slope. The fire head is the main focus for containment efforts as it poses the greatest threat to spread.

The record of past fire occurrences in a specific area, including details of frequency, causes, and impacts. Fire history helps guide fire management and prevention strategies.

A connection point to a water supply system that firefighters use to access water for fire suppression. Fire hydrants are strategically placed in urban and rural areas to aid in firefighting efforts.

The detailed examination of a fire event to assess its origin, cause, spread, and impact. Incident analysis helps improve fire response tactics and informs future prevention strategies.

A type of property insurance that covers damage and losses caused by fire. Fire insurance policies may include coverage for the structure, personal property, and additional living expenses if the property is uninhabitable after a fire.

The amount of heat energy released during a fire, usually measured in terms of heat per unit length of fire front (kW/m). Fire intensity is a key factor in understanding fire behavior and planning firefighting tactics.

The process of examining a fire scene and collecting evidence to determine the cause and origin of the fire. Fire investigators use various methods, including burn pattern analysis, witness interviews, and chemical testing, to reach conclusions.

Specialized programs used by fire investigators to document evidence, create scene diagrams, and analyze fire dynamics. These tools aid in creating comprehensive reports and case files.

A professional trained to analyze fire scenes, collect evidence, and determine the cause and origin of a fire. Fire investigators may work for fire departments, insurance companies, or government agencies.

Equipment used by fire investigators to collect and analyze evidence, such as thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, gas detectors, and sample containers. These tools help determine fire origin and cause.

A cleared strip of land or a barrier created to stop or control the spread of a wildfire. Fire lines can be dug manually, created by bulldozers, or established using controlled burns.

The total quantity of combustible materials present in a building or space that can fuel a fire. The fire load helps assess potential fire severity and informs fire safety planning.

The practices and strategies used to control, suppress, and prevent fires, including both wildfire and structural fire scenarios. Fire management encompasses planning, training, and resource allocation.

A comprehensive document outlining strategies and procedures for preventing and responding to fires in a specific area. An FMP considers resources, risk assessment, and environmental factors.

A public official responsible for enforcing fire codes, investigating fire causes, and conducting fire safety inspections. Fire marshals often play a role in public education and fire prevention programs.

The specific location or area where a fire begins. Determining the fire origin is critical for understanding the cause and for conducting thorough fire investigations.

A non-combustible barrier or wall designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke between sections of a building. Fire partitions are an important component of building fire safety systems.

The study of burn patterns to draw conclusions about a fire’s origin, spread, and cause. This analysis involves examining char depth, smoke staining, and other fire effects on materials.

The distinctive burn marks and damage left by a fire that help investigators understand its behavior and progression. Patterns such as V-shapes, hourglasses, and charring are analyzed to determine fire direction and intensity.