The Magic of Fire

For thousands of years, fire has been central to human life. It cooked food, warded off predators and provided warmth and light. But beyond its practical uses, it holds a strong and powerful psychological appeal.

Whether it’s the heat from a wood burning stove or the hypnotic, flickering dance of flames on a campfire, there is something uniquely special and even magical about fire. Its beauty and power can promote stress reduction, enhance relaxation and create a sense of well-being. In fact, research shows that spending time around a fire releases natural chemicals in the brain, including oxytocin and seroton, which help to alleviate stress and anxiety. This phenomenon is called “the calming effect of fire,” and it’s one reason why many invest in a wood burning fireplace or outdoor fire pit.

The magic of fire begins with the chemical reaction that produces it – combustion. During this process, solids, liquids and liquid gases undergo a transformation (chemical, exothermic) that combines the oxygen in air with the molecules of the fuel to produce water and carbon dioxide as byproducts, as well as heat energy.

When there’s enough fuel and oxygen present, the process is self-sustaining – as long as the fuel is still at its ignition temperature, it will continue to burn. The burning fuel, when hot enough, ignites other nearby fuel particles in a chain reaction that continues until the fuel is completely consumed. The resulting gases, called combustion products, are released as smoke (a mixture of unburnt particles, evaporated water and carbon dioxide).

Some materials, such as plastics, rubber, certain fabrics and some household cleaners and paints, can burn at much lower temperatures and may have a slower reaction to oxygen. These types of materials are referred to as class B or slow-burning. They may not release a lot of visible smoke, but can cause significant damage to structures and possessions. They can be extinguished by cooling them to below their ignition point, using water or other extinguishing agents such as dry sand or powdered sodium chloride salts.

Wildfires – and their accompanying dangers to homes, lives and property – are exacerbated by climate change, which is expected to lead to warmer and drier conditions in many parts of the country. The best way to minimize the risk of wildfire is by regularly removing brush, weeds and other potential fire fuels from your home and landscape, and keeping a fire-safe “go bag” ready during the fire season. Also, it’s important to have an evacuation plan in place and a fire escape route prepared before a disaster happens. During the fire season, it’s also a good idea to keep propane tanks and other gas cylinders away from your home.