What does the term "fire behavior" encompass?

The term "fire behavior" refers to the chemistry and physics of how fires start, spread, and are controlled. This encompasses various aspects of fire dynamics, including the mechanisms of combustion, temperature development, fuel characteristics, and the influence of environmental conditions such as wind and humidity. Understanding fire behavior is crucial for firefighters in making strategic decisions about suppression tactics, predicting fire spread, and ensuring safety for both personnel and civilians in the vicinity of a fire.

When firefighters have a solid grasp of fire behavior, they can anticipate how a fire will interact with its surroundings and effectively manage resources for firefighting efforts. This knowledge is vital for developing safety protocols and training exercises that prepare personnel for real-world scenarios.