On this page, you’ll obtain information to understand how fire develops and the evidence it may leave behind.
At the Fire Safety Research Institute, part of UL Research Institutes, fire protection engineers and safety scientists study fire in a very controlled and scientific way. Do not attempt to recreate these tests yourself: instead, this pathway will take you through these experiments virtually. Your teachers can provide you with similar experiences that allow you to explore fire in a safe setting. If you are interested in performing similar tests yourself, consider pursuing a career as a safety scientist!
Let’s take a close look at the vocabulary that will help us communicate about the stages of fire development.
Ignition is when heat, oxygen, and a fuel source combine. The result of this chemical reaction is fire.
During the growth stage, the fuel will continue to burn because heat, oxygen, and fuel are available.
There are three methods of heat transfer that can cause a fire to grow and spread.
The methods of heat transfer are:
All combustible materials are ignited. The fire will extinguish if heat, fuel or oxygen are limited.
Usually the longest stage of a fire. Oxygen, heat and/or fuel decrease until the fire goes out.
What to you notice as the fire progresses through the four stages?
With proper adult supervision, you can complete this classroom investigation: Heat Transfer and Ignition Investigation Guide.
Heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation cause fire to grow and develop.
The amount of damage on an object can indicate how it was heated, and its location relative to the origin.
charred toaster versus melted lightbulb.
