Fire Science: Understanding the Basics

 According to the general perception, being a firefighter is a test of mental and physical endurance. If you’re able to run up multiple staircases carrying heavy equipment and save people from burning, you can be a firefighter.

However, it isn’t that simple. While stamina and strength are necessary, many municipalities require firefighters to have a college degree in Fire Science. It ensures that the services by the fire department are of the highest calibre, and it also sets a standard of professional service. 

Firefighting Basics

In this program, students learn how fires start, how they spread, and what are the best ways to put them off. But extinguishing a fire requires more than just spraying it with water. Therefore, the students also learn fire dynamics, fire behavior, and managing different fires – wildfire, structure fire, etc. Fire safety and prevention are also essential aspects of a firefighter’s job. 

Emergency Medical Services

Majority of fire department’s calls are for medical emergencies instead of fires. Therefore, firefighters are also trained as emergency medical technicians. Firefighters aren’t usually involved in taking patients to the hospital. However, since they arrive first, they begin life-saving measures where necessary. 

Fire Science 101 – basic terms and concepts 

Terms and Definitions

Combustion

It is the process of rapid oxidation (or burning) of a fuel, which produces heat and light.

Flammable or Explosive Limits

The ratio of a substance (vapor) in the air that will burn once it is ignited.

Flash Point

The minimum temperature when a liquid fuel gives off adequate vapors to make an ignitable mixture.

Ignition Temperature

The temperature at which fuel in air is heated to begin self-sustained combustion.

Heat Transfer

Heat tends to flow from a hot to a cold area. The colder area will absorb heat until both areas are at the same temperature.

Conduction

The method of heat transfer via direct contact.

Convection

Heat transfer by the movement of air or liquid.   

Radiation 

It occurs when heat travels via waves through the air. 

Phases of Fire 

Incipient Phase

When the fire begins with the ignition.

Rollover Phase

When combustible gases begin to gather at the ceiling level.

Steady-State Burning Phase

When there are sufficient oxygen and fuel for the fire to grow and spread. The temperatures during this can reach over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Flashover

When fire “flashover” an entire area as heat generates from the fire.

Hot Smoldering Phase

When flames die down and burning is reduced. Thick smoke and toxic gasses are a danger at this stage.

Backdraft

It occurs if oxygen is present during the Steady-State Burning Phase, increasing the combustion. This scenario is very hazardous for a Firefighter.

Exam

The New York Fire Department is a vital part of the city and is among one of the most diverse departments. The FDNY exam is conducted every four years and has a great turnout. The last session of the exam, held in 2017, witnessed a record turnout of 46,305 people, among which 56% were people of color and 4,000+ were women. 

To prepare for the NYC Civil Service exam, read the requirements and register here.