The Basics of Fire

Fire is one of the most powerful and unpredictable natural forces on Earth. It can destroy buildings and life in a blink of an eye, leaving behind nothing but ash and ruin. Yet it is also a critical force of nature and an essential part of the ecosystem, providing energy for organisms to survive and grow.

Fire starts when fuel (like wood, paper or fabric) is heated to its ignition temperature and combines with oxygen from the air in a chemical reaction called combustion. When the reaction is complete, it produces water and carbon dioxide as well as heat energy. Incomplete combustion, however, releases gases including carbon monoxide and smoke into the atmosphere.

Once the fire is established, it can spread from point to point through radiation, convection and the transfer of heat through hot vaporized gases. It can also rekindle itself from a pile of embers if the right conditions are present. When fire is fully developed, the flames cover a large area and temperatures reach their highest point. This is when most of the available fuel is burned, and oxygen is consumed quickly.

In humans, we rely on fire for warmth and cooking, but it’s also an important social tool. Sitting around a fire and enjoying its heat, beauty, crackling sound and other sensory aspects is calming for many people. Research shows that the simple act of engaging with a fire can increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone linked to feelings of trust and bonding. This may explain why social activities like sharing a meal or story around the campfire are among the most popular human pastimes.

Ecosystems need periodic fires to remove dead organic material and create more space for new growth. For example, a layer of dead plants and other organic debris can build up on the ground, preventing soil organisms from accessing nutrients or blocking outgrowth by other smaller plants. When the vegetation is burnt by fire, it breaks down faster and releases the nutrients into the soil. This process is known as a “controlled burn” or “prescribed burn,” and it’s performed by trained and experienced wildfire managers for multiple purposes, including to reduce the threat of wildfires to communities.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of fire and its dangers. This can help ensure you are following best practices to prevent fire in your workplace and home and can protect yourself and others from injury or death. To learn more about fire safety, contact your local fire department and the Health and Safety Executive.