Glossary

The likelihood that a fire will start based on the conditions of fuel, heat, and oxygen availability. Ignition probability is used in fire risk assessments to predict potential fire outbreaks.

Objects or actions that can provide the heat necessary for ignition, such as matches, lighters, electrical faults, or friction. Identifying ignition sources is crucial in fire investigations to determine fire causes.

A component in vehicles and machinery that starts the engine or system. Faulty ignition switches can be a source of electrical fires, especially if they create a spark or short circuit.

The minimum temperature at which a material can spontaneously ignite without an external flame. Ignition temperatures are key to understanding the fire risks of different materials.

The amount of time required for a material to ignite when exposed to heat. This time can vary based on the material type, heat source, and environmental conditions.

The process by which a material catches fire without an external flame or spark, often due to a chemical reaction, heat buildup, or decomposition. Spontaneous ignition poses risks in storage of materials like oily rags and certain chemicals.

The property of two substances that do not mix or blend uniformly, such as oil and water. Understanding immiscibility is important when considering fire suppression tactics involving liquids.

The ability of a material to withstand mechanical force without cracking or breaking. Materials with high impact resistance are often used in fire-resistant building construction to maintain structural integrity during a fire.

The resistance of an electrical circuit to the flow of alternating current (AC), which can affect heat generation in electrical systems. High impedance can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards.

A type of fire that is intentionally set with the intent to cause damage or harm. Incendiary fires are often associated with arson and require investigation to identify the cause and perpetrator.

A fire that has been deliberately ignited to cause destruction or damage. Such fires are typically illegal and are investigated as acts of arson.

An event or occurrence that requires emergency response, such as a fire, explosion, or accident. Incidents can range in severity from minor to catastrophic and may involve multiple agencies for resolution.

A formal document outlining the strategy, tactics, and resources needed to manage and resolve an incident. The IAP is used in firefighting and emergency management to coordinate response efforts effectively.

The on-site location where the incident commander and key staff coordinate and manage emergency response efforts. The ICP is the central point for communication and decision-making during an incident.

A standardized framework used to manage emergency response operations, ensuring clear communication and organization. ICS allows multiple agencies to work together efficiently during complex incidents like large-scale fires.

The individual responsible for overseeing all operations at the scene of an emergency. The incident commander leads the strategic and tactical response and ensures the safety of personnel and the public.

A group of trained personnel that oversees the coordination and management of large or complex incidents, such as wildfires or natural disasters. Teams can be local, regional, or national in scope.

The specific goals set for managing an incident, such as containment, suppression, and protecting life and property. Incident objectives guide the actions of response teams and ensure a unified approach.

The process of documenting the details and response to an emergency incident. Incident reports provide a record for analysis, lessons learned, and potential legal or insurance purposes.

The initial stage of a fire, characterized by low heat and limited flame spread. Early detection and response during the incipient phase can prevent a fire from growing out of control.

A logical approach used to develop general conclusions based on specific observations and evidence. In fire investigations, inductive reasoning helps form hypotheses about the cause of a fire based on the available data.

A substance that does not react chemically under normal conditions. Inert gases, like nitrogen, are often used in fire suppression systems to displace oxygen and smother a fire.

The use of infrared technology to detect heat sources and hot spots that are not visible to the naked eye. Infrared cameras and sensors are used in firefighting and fire investigations to monitor fire activity and locate hidden flames.

The first efforts made by firefighters and response teams to control and suppress a fire when it is still small and manageable. Effective initial attacks can prevent fires from escalating into larger incidents.

A financial product that provides compensation for losses or damage caused by covered events, such as fire. Property and fire insurance help policyholders recover after incidents and mitigate financial risks.

A professional responsible for assessing and evaluating insurance claims, including those related to fire damage. Adjusters determine the extent of the damage and the compensation amount for the insured party.

A representative who sells insurance policies to customers and helps them understand coverage options. Agents may assist clients in choosing policies that protect against fire and other risks.

An intermediary who represents clients to help them find the best insurance policies for their needs, including coverage for fire protection. Brokers work independently from insurance companies to find suitable policies.

The company or organization that provides insurance coverage and pays out claims. Insurance carriers underwrite policies and assess risks, including those related to fire damage.

Requests made by policyholders to their insurance company for compensation or coverage following a loss or damage, such as from a fire. Claims must be supported with documentation and evidence of the incident.

A legal agreement between an insurer and an insured party outlining the terms, coverage, and conditions of the insurance policy. This contract specifies what is covered, such as fire damage, and the obligations of both parties.

The act of intentionally deceiving an insurance company to receive compensation or benefits unlawfully. Insurance fraud can involve staged fires or false claims of fire damage.

The funds provided by an insurance company to a policyholder as compensation for a covered loss or damage, such as fire-related destruction of property.

A document detailing the terms, conditions, and coverage of an insurance agreement. Fire insurance policies outline what fire-related damages are covered and under what circumstances.

To provide financial protection against potential losses or damages by purchasing an insurance policy. Many individuals and businesses insure properties to safeguard against fire damage.

The person or entity that holds an insurance policy and is protected under the terms of that policy. The insured party is eligible for compensation in the event of fire damage if it falls within the policy's coverage.

The company or organization that provides insurance coverage and pays out claims when a covered event, such as a fire, occurs. Insurers assess risk and set premiums for policies.

The purpose or mindset behind an action, particularly when determining whether a fire was set intentionally or by accident. In arson cases, proving intent is key to legal proceedings.

Any individual or organization with a vested interest in the outcome of a fire investigation or insurance claim. This can include property owners, insurers, and other stakeholders.

The opposition to the flow of electric current within a battery or electrical system, which generates heat. High internal resistance can lead to overheating and potential fire risks.

A piece of information or evidence that guides a fire investigator towards a potential cause or suspect. Leads can come from witnesses, physical evidence, or data analysis.

A group of professionals who collaborate on a fire investigation to determine the cause, origin, and contributing factors. The team may include fire investigators, forensic experts, and law enforcement officers.

A line or marking that indicates areas of equal burn intensity on a fire-damaged surface. Isochar mapping helps investigators understand the progression and severity of a fire.

A process of identifying potential hazards associated with specific jobs or tasks, including fire risks. This analysis helps in creating safer work practices and emergency response plans.

A unit of energy in the International System of Units (SI). In fire investigations, joules may be used to measure the energy released during combustion or electrical discharge.

A designated location where smokejumpers (firefighters trained to parachute into remote areas) can safely land to begin firefighting operations.

A specialized suit worn by smokejumpers that provides protection against flames, abrasion, and impact during their descent and initial firefighting efforts.

An index used to measure the dryness of soil and vegetation, indicating the potential for fire ignition and spread. Higher KBDI values suggest greater fire risk due to dry conditions.

A unit of power equal to 1,000 watts, commonly used to measure the output of electrical devices and energy release during fires. Kilowatt ratings help assess the energy demands and potential heat generation in electrical systems.

Small, dry twigs or pieces of wood that ignite easily and are used to start a fire. Kindling plays an essential role in the initial phase of fire ignition.

The minimum temperature required for a material to ignite and sustain combustion without an external flame. Knowing the kindling temperature of materials helps assess fire risk and prevention strategies.

Related to motion or movement. In fire dynamics, kinetic energy contributes to the movement of gases, flames, and embers, affecting fire spread and behavior.

A theory that explains the behavior of particles in matter, especially gases, and their response to heat. In fire science, kinetic theory helps describe how heat energy causes molecules to move and ignite.

The study of the rate at which chemical reactions occur, including combustion reactions in fires. Kinetics helps understand the speed of ignition and the progression of a fire.

The initial phase of fire suppression when water or fire retardants are applied to reduce flames and control the fire’s intensity. "Knock down" helps prevent further spread and allows firefighters to move into the overhaul phase.

Vegetation or materials that allow a fire to climb from the forest floor up to the canopy. Ladder fuels contribute to the vertical spread of a fire, making it more difficult to control.

A smooth, uninterrupted flow of air or fluid, where particles move in parallel layers with minimal mixing. In fire science, understanding laminar flow helps predict smoke movement and fire spread in controlled environments.

A fire that exceeds the capabilities of initial attack resources and requires significant additional firefighting efforts and coordination. Large fires can spread rapidly and pose significant risks to life and property.

The amount of heat energy absorbed or released during a phase change of a substance, such as water turning into steam, without changing temperature. In fire behavior, latent heat impacts the ignition and spread of flames.

The amount of energy required for a liquid to convert into a vapor without a temperature increase. This property is important for understanding the heat transfer in fires involving water-based suppression.

The horizontal spread of fire along the ground or across a landscape. Lateral fire spread is influenced by wind, fuel type, and topography and is a key factor in fire containment strategies.

The accumulation of different types of fuels in distinct layers, such as grasses, brush, and tree limbs. Layering affects fire intensity, spread, and the difficulty of suppression.

An aircraft that flies ahead of air tankers during aerial firefighting operations to mark the target area for water or retardant drops. The lead plane ensures accuracy and safety in aerial drops.

Equipment designed to protect and save lives during fire emergencies, such as fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Lifesaving appliances are essential for occupant and firefighter safety.

Fine, dry materials such as grass, leaves, and needles that ignite quickly and burn with high intensity. Light fuels contribute to the rapid spread of surface fires.

A category of petroleum products that are less dense and have lower boiling points, such as gasoline and kerosene. These distillates are highly flammable and are analyzed in fire investigations as potential accelerants.

A scale used to measure lightning activity, which indicates the potential for fire ignition from lightning strikes. Higher LAL values correlate with increased fire risk.

A firefighter or team member responsible for locating and marking potential fire lines in wildfire management. Line scouts identify areas where control lines can be established to contain the fire.

A clear boundary indicating the division between burned and unburned areas at a fire scene. This line helps investigators determine the fire's progress and potential origin.

Multiple boundaries used to identify different stages of fire spread or areas affected by varying levels of fire intensity. These lines aid in mapping fire behavior and planning suppression tactics.

The deposition of lithium metal on a battery’s anode, which can occur during rapid charging or low-temperature charging. Lithium plating increases the risk of internal short circuits and fires.

A type of rechargeable battery commonly used in electronic devices and electric vehicles. Lithium-ion batteries can pose fire risks if damaged or overheated due to thermal runaway and potential ignition.

Loose, dead plant material such as leaves, twigs, and bark on the forest floor. Litter acts as a surface fuel, contributing to the ignition and spread of wildfires.

Vegetation that still has moisture content and is capable of burning, though less easily than dead fuels. Live fuels can still contribute to fire spread under dry or extreme conditions.

The post-mortem settling of blood in the body that results in a purplish discoloration of the skin. In fire investigations involving fatalities, lividity can help determine the time and position of death.

A type of explosive that deflagrates (burns rapidly) rather than detonates. Low explosives are typically used in propellants and fireworks and can pose fire risks under certain conditions.

A comparison between the deflagration of low explosives and a low order explosion, which is characterized by incomplete combustion and minimal damage compared to a high order explosion.

Building design and materials that are resistant to ignition and reduce the spread of fire. This type of construction is used in fire-prone areas to enhance safety and resilience.

Landscaping practices that use fire-resistant plants and non-combustible materials to create defensible space around structures. This strategy helps prevent the spread of wildfire to buildings.

Damage resulting from an explosion that is less severe, characterized by slower combustion and minimal shock wave impact. This type of damage may indicate a low explosive or incomplete detonation.

The lowest concentration of a flammable vapor or gas in the air that can ignite. Concentrations below this limit are too "lean" to sustain combustion.

An agreement between organizations or agencies outlining cooperative actions and responsibilities, such as sharing resources or coordinating responses during fire incidents.

An agreement between organizations or agencies outlining cooperative actions and responsibilities, such as sharing resources or coordinating responses during fire incidents.

The intention to commit a harmful or unlawful act. In the context of fire investigations, proving malice is crucial in cases of arson where intent must be established for prosecution.

A site where goods are produced and may involve the use of flammable or hazardous materials. Fires at manufacturing facilities can be particularly dangerous due to the presence of volatile substances.

A fire that originates in the engine compartment of a boat or ship, often due to fuel leaks, electrical malfunctions, or overheating. Marine engine fires require specialized firefighting techniques due to confined spaces and potential fuel hazards.

Techniques and systems used to control and extinguish fires on boats, ships, and other marine vessels. Marine fire suppression may involve water, foam, or specialized extinguishing agents.

The specialized practice of combating fires on vessels, ports, and waterfronts. This type of firefighting requires knowledge of ship structure, onboard fire hazards, and the use of marine-specific equipment.

Insurance claims related to damages or losses from fires that occur on ships or at sea. These claims often involve complex assessments due to the unique challenges of marine fires.

Procedures and guidelines designed to prevent and manage fires and other emergencies on marine vessels. These protocols include regular inspections, fire drills, and the maintenance of fire suppression systems.

The initial material that catches fire and sustains combustion at the start of a fire incident. Identifying this material helps investigators pinpoint the fire's origin and potential ignition sources.

The malfunction or breakdown of machinery or equipment that can lead to overheating, sparking, or other conditions conducive to fire. Mechanical failure is a common cause of industrial and vehicle fires.

A type of petroleum product that falls between light and heavy distillates, including substances such as kerosene and diesel fuel. Medium distillates can be flammable and are significant in fire investigations involving accelerants.

The temperature at which a solid becomes a liquid. In fire investigations, understanding the melting point of materials helps determine the temperature and heat exposure at the scene.

A system that uses remote sensors to monitor environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and wind, which can impact fire behavior. Micro-REMS data helps fire managers make informed decisions during wildfire incidents.

Soil composed mostly of inorganic materials, which is less combustible than organic soil layers like duff. Mineral soil can act as a natural firebreak in wildland fire management.

The lowest concentration of combustible dust or gas in the air that can ignite and cause an explosion. MEC is an important parameter for assessing fire risks in industrial settings.

The least amount of energy needed to ignite a specific fuel-air mixture. Understanding MIE helps in assessing the likelihood of ignition under various conditions.

The ability of two substances to mix together in any proportion without separating. Miscibility is significant in fire scenarios involving liquid fuels and suppressants.

A criminal offense that is less severe than a felony but still punishable by fines, community service, or imprisonment. In fire cases, misdemeanors can include violations of fire safety codes or negligent acts leading to fire incidents.