Cdi 5 - Fire Technology and Arson Investigation

CDI 6 Nor-Alissa M.
Diso, RC
LESSON 1 FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION
Learning Objectives:
1. Definition of Fire
2. Discuss the Chemistry of fire
3. Familiarization of the properties of fire
INTRODUCTION
WHAT IS FIRE?
Fire is the manifestation of rapid chemical reaction

occurring between fuel and an oxidizer- typically the oxygen
in the air. Such rapid chemical reaction releases energy in
the form of heat and light.
Fire is heat and light resulting from the rapid

combination of oxygen, or in some cases gaseous chlorine,
with other materials. The light is in the form of a flame,
which is composed of glowing particles of the burning
material and certain gaseous products that are luminous at
the temperature of the burning material.
THE START OF FIRE
All matters exist of one of the three states – solid,

liquid and gas (vapor). The atoms or molecules of a solid
are packed closely together, and that of a liquid is packed
loosely, the molecules of a vapor are not packed together at
all, they are free to move about. In order for a substance
to oxidize, its molecules must be pretty well surrounded by
oxygen molecules. The molecules of solids or liquids are too
tightly packed to be surrounded. Thus, only vapors can burn.
However, when a solid or a liquid is heated, its

molecules move about rapidly. If enough heat is applied,
some molecules break away from the surface to form a vapor
just above the substance. This vapor can now mixed with
oxygen. If there is enough heat to raise the vapor to its
ignition temperature (temperature needed to burn), and if
there is enough oxygen present, the vapor will oxidize
rapidly – it will start to burn.
The start of burning is the start of a Chain Reaction

(the burning process). Vapor from heated fuel rises, mixes
with air and burns. It produces enough heat to release more
vapor and to draw in air to burn that vapor. As more vapor
burns, flame production increases. More heat is produced,
more vapor released, more air drawn into the flames and more
vapor burns, the chain reaction keeps increasing – the size
of the fire increases until fuel is consumed.
CHEMISTRY OF FIRE
Obviously, three things are required for combustion or
Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 10

CDI 6 Nor-Alissa M. Diso, RC
fire: FUEL (Combustible materials to vaporize and burn),
OXYGEN (Oxygen in air is the common oxidizing agent, to
combine with fuel vapor, air contains 28% O, 78 N, 1% inert
gas), and HEAT (to raise the temperature of the fuel vapor
to its ignition temperature). The combinations of these
three elements form the so-called Fire Triangle.
The Fire Triangle
Oxygen Heat
Fuel
Figure 1
Figure 1 will show that if any side of the fire

triangle is missing, a fire can not start or if any side of
the fire triangle is removed, the fire will go off.
With the presence of the elements of fire, combustion

may take place. Before a fuel will burn, it must be changed
to its vapor state. In a fire situation, this change usually
results from the initial application of heat. The process is
known as PYROLYSIS. Pyrolysis (also known as thermal
decomposition) is defined as the “chemical decomposition of
matter through the action of heat”. In this case, the
decomposition causes a change from a solid state to vapor
state. If the vapor mixes sufficiently with air and heated
to high temperature, combustion results.
The combustion process is better represented by the fire

tetrahedron.
The Fire Tetrahedron
Oxygen Heat
Fuel Chain Reaction
Figure 2
The fire tetrahedron is useful in illustrating and

remembering the combustion process because it has room for

the chain reaction and because each face touches the other
three faces.
The basic difference between the fire triangle and the

fire tetrahedron is that: The tetrahedron illustrates how
flaming combustion is supported and sustained through the
chain reaction. In this sense, the chain reaction face keeps
the other three faces from falling apart.
The fire tetrahedron also explains the flaming mode of

combustion. The modes of combustion are either Flaming mode
or Surface mode (Glowing– represented by the fire triangle).
A condensed phased combustion is called glowing

combustion
A gas-phased combustion is known as flame
If the process is confined with pressure it is called
explosion
If combustion propagates at supersonic speed, it
produced a detonation
PROPERTIES OF FIRE
A. The Physical properties
1. Specific Gravity – the ratio of the weight of a

solid or liquid substance to the weight of an equal
volume of water.
2. Vapor density – the weight of a volume of pure gas
composed to the volume of dry air at the same
temperature and pressure.
3. Vapor Pressure – the force exerted by the
molecules on the surface of a liquid.
4. Temperature – the measure of the degree of thermal
agitation of molecules.
5. Boiling Point – the constant temperature at which
the vapor pressure of the liquid is equal to the
atmospheric pressure.
6. Ignition/Kindling temperature – the minimum
temperature at which the substance must be heated in
order to initiate combustion.
7. Fire point – the lowest temperature of a liquid in
an open container at which vapors are evolved fast
enough to support combustion.
8. Flash point – the temperature at which a flammable
liquid forms a vapor-air mixture that ignites (mixture
with in the explosive range).
To burn a fuel (combustible material), its temperature

must be raised until ignition point is reached. Thus, before
a fuel start to burn or before it can be ignited, it has to
be exposed to a certain degree of temperature. When the
temperature of a certain substance is very high, it releases
highly combustible vapors known as FREE RADICALS
(combustible vapors such as hydrogen gas, carbon monoxide,
carbon dioxide, and nitrogen).

During the process of pyrolysis, the following are involved:
 the fuel is heated until its temperature reaches its

fire point,
 decomposition takes place – moisture in the fuel is
converted to vapor,
 decomposition produces combustible vapors that rise
to the surface of the fuel (free radicals)
 free radicals undergo combustion.
B. The Chemical Properties
1. Endothermic Reactions – changes whereby energy

(heat) is absorbed or is added before the reaction
takes place.
2. Exothermic Reactions – those that release or give
off energy (heat) thus they produce substances with
less energy than the reactants.
3. Oxidation – a chemical change that is exothermic,
a change in which combustible material (fuel) and an
oxidizing agent (air), react. Example of oxidation
is combustion which is the same as actual burning
(rapid oxidation)
4. Flames – flames are incandescent (very
bright/glowing with intense heat) gases. It is a
combustion product and a manifestation of fire when
it is in its gas-phased combustion.
5.

ASSESSMENT NO. 1 SELF-EVALUATION

6.
1. What is Fire?
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2. What is the essence of studying fire technology and

arson investigation?
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LESSON 2 FIRE TECHNOLOGY
1. Familiarization of the types of flames

2. Discuss fire elements
3. Understanding of the classification of Combustible
Materials
Types of Flames
a. Based on Color and Completeness of

Combustibility of Fuel
1. Luminous Flame – is orange-red, deposit soot

at the bottom of a vessel being heated due to
incomplete combustion and has a low temperature.
2. Non-Luminous Flame – is blue, there is
complete combustion of fuel and has relatively high
temperature.
b. Based on Fuel and Air Mixture
1. Premixed Flame – is exemplified by a Bunsen-

type laboratory burner where hydrocarbon (any
substance containing primarily carbon and hydrogen)
is thoroughly mixed with air before reaching the
flame zone.
2. Diffusion Flame – is observed when gas (fuel)
alone is forced through a nozzle into the atmosphere
which diffuses in the surrounding atmosphere in
order to form a flammable mixture. The candle flame
is an example of diffusion flame governed purely by
molecular diffusion, and the flame of the
oxyacetylene torch. (diffused – dispersed, widely
spread)
c. Based on Smoothness
1. Laminar Flame – when a particle follows a

smooth path through a gaseous flame.
2. Turbulent Flame – are those having unsteady,
irregular flows. As physical size, gas density or
velocity is increased, all laminar gas flows tend to
become turbulent.
FIRE ELEMENTS
As mentioned in part one, fire has been described as

having three components: fuel, heat, and oxygen. This triad
was illustrated by the fire triangle, which symbolized, in
the most basic terms, a chemical relationship. The
additional component needed to explain flaming combustion is
a chemical chain reaction shown in the fire tetrahedron.

FUEL
FUELS (Combustible Materials)– fuel is matter and

matter exist in three physical states: solid, liquid and
gas. Solids melt to become liquids, and these may vaporize
and become gases. The basic rule is that at high enough
temperature all fuels can be converted to gases. And each of
the physical states exhibits different physical and chemical
properties that directly affect a fuel’s combustibility. For
example, gasoline as a liquid does not burn, it is the
vapors rising from the liquid that burn. Likewise, wood, the
most common solid fuel, is not flammable, but gives of
flammable vapors (free radicals).
FUEL is also a material that provides useful energy.

Fuels are used to heat and cook food, power engines, and
produce electricity. Some fuels occur naturally and others
are artificially created. Such natural fuels are coals,
petroleum, and natural gases obtained from underground
deposits that were formed million years ago from the remains
of plants and animals. They are called fossil fuels, which
account for about 90% of the energy people use today.
Synthetic fuels can be made from fossil fuels, certain

types of rock and sand, and biomass.
Most fuels release energy by burning with oxygen in the

air. But some – especially chemical fuels used in rockets –
need special oxidizers in order to burn. Nuclear fuels do
not burn but release energy through the fission (splitting)
of fusion (joining together) of atoms.
Classification of Combustible Materials
1. Class A Fuels – they are ordinary combustible

materials that are usually made of organic
substances such as wood and wood-based products. It
includes some synthetic or inorganic materials like
rubber, leather, and plastic products.
2. Class B Fuels – materials that are in the form of
flammable liquids such as alcohol, acidic solutions,
oil, liquid petroleum products, etc.
3. Class C Fuels – they are normally fire resistant
materials such as materials used on electrical
wiring and other electrical appliances.
4. Class D Fuels – they are combustible metallic
substances such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium,
sodium and potassium.
General Categories of Fuel
1. Solid Combustible Materials – includes organic and

inorganic, natural or synthetic, and metallic solid
materials.
2. Liquid Combustible Materials – includes all
flammable liquid fuels and chemicals.

3. Gaseous Substances – includes those toxic/hazardous
gases that are capable of ignition.
The Solid Fuels
The most obvious solid fuels are wood, paper and cloth.
Its burning rate depends on its configuration. For example,
solid fuels in the form of dust will burn faster than bulky
materials.
Types of Flammable solids
a. Pyrolyzable solid fuels – include many of the ordinary

accepted combustibles: wood, paper and so on. The vapors
released by their chemical decomposition support flaming
combustion. This exemplifies a gas-to-gas reaction: the
vapors released mixed with oxygen in the air to produce a
flame.
b. Non-pyrolyzable solid fuels – solid fuels that are

difficult to ignite. A common example is charcoal. Chemical
decomposition does not occur because there are no
pyrolyzable elements present. No vapors are released. The
glowing combustion that results is an example of a gas-to-
solid reaction.
The following are group of solid fuels
1. Biomass – it is the name given to such replaceable

organic matters like wood, garbage and animal manure that
can be use to produce energy. For example, heat produced by
burning nutshells, rice and oat hulls, and other by-products
of food processing. They are often used to operate plant
equipment.
Factors affecting the combustibility of wood and wood-

based products
a. Physical form – the smaller the piece of wood, the

easier it is to burn.
b. Moisture content (water content) – the freshly cut
wood is more difficult to ignite and burn than dry
wood.
c. Heat conductivity - a poor conductor of heat takes a
longer time to ignite than those materials that are
good conductors of heat.
d. Rate and period of heating – less flammable
materials don’t easily ignite and needs direct
contact with flame than highly combustible
materials.
e. Rate of combustion – with an unlimited supply of
oxygen, the rate of burns increases, more heat is
produced and fuel is consumed more completely.
f. Ignition temperature – the higher the temperature,
the faster it reaches ignition point and it varies
depending on the other factors above.

2. Fabrics and Textiles – almost all fibers and
textiles are combustible. A fiber is a very fine thin strand
or thread like object. Fabrics are twisted or woven fibers.
And textiles are machine woven or knitted fabric.
Classification of Fibers
a. Natural Fibers – they come from plants (Coir –

coconut fiber, Cotton – seed fiber, pulp – wood
fiber) , from animals (wool, silk, protein fibers –
leather), from minerals (asbestos)
b. Synthetic/Artificial Fibers – organic fibers,

cellulose fibers, cellulose acetate, non-cellulose,
and inorganic fibers like fiber glass, steel
Factors affecting the combustibility of fibers
a. Chemical composition – natural and synthetic organic

fibers are generally highly combustible materials
especially if they are dry. Mineral fibers and
synthetic inorganic fibers are normally fire
resistant materials.
b. Fiber finish or coating – fiber coating combined
with organic fibers are supportive to continued
burning of fabric.
c. Fabric weight – the heavier the fabric, the greater
its resistance to ignition, thus delaying its
ignition.
d. Tightness of weave – the closer the fiber are woven,
the smaller the space it contains, thus it takes a
longer period to ignite it.
e. Flame retardant treatment – fabric treated with
flame retardant have higher resistance to ignition.
Fabric Ignition
Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) is a numerical basis of

measuring the tendency of a fabric to continuously burn once
source of ignition is removed. If the LOI of a fabric is
high, the probability that it will cease to burn once the
flame is removed is also high. Fabrics with high LOI and
high ignition temperature are safer for clothing and
furnishing because they do not ignite easily. Also, they do
not continue burning after the source of heat or flame is
removed.
3. Plastics – plastics are included as ordinary fuels

under class A except those materials of or containing
cellulose nitrate. Cellulose Nitrate is a chemical powder
used in bombs, they are also called pyroxylin.
Plastics comprise a group of materials consisting

mainly of organic substances or high molecular substances.
They are solid in the finished state although at some stage
of manufacture plastics can be made to flow into a desired

shape, usually through the application of heat or pressure
or both.
4. Coal – a black, combustible, mineral solid resulting

from the partial decomposition of matter under varying
degrees of temperature. They are used as fuels in the
production of coal gas, water gas, and many coal compounds.
They are also used to heat buildings and to provide energy
for industrial machinery.
The forms of coal are: lignite or brown coal, sub-

bituminous coal, bituminous coal, anthracite
Bituminous coal is the most plentiful and important

coal used by industry. It contains more carbon and produces
more heat than either lignite or sub-bituminous coal. It is
also the coal best suited for making coke. Antracite is the
least plentiful and hardest coal. It contains more carbon
and produces more heat than other coals. However, antracite
is difficult to ignite and burns slowly.
5. Peat – It is partially decayed plant matter found in

swamps called bags and used as a fuel chiefly in areas where
coal and oil are scarce. In Ireland and Scotland, for
example, peat is cut formed in blocks, and dried; the dried
bloks are then burned to heat homes.
The Liquid Fuels
Liquid fuels are mainly made from Petroleum, but some

synthetic liquids are also produced. Petroleum is also
called crude oil. They may be refined to produce gasoline,
diesel oil, and kerosene. Other fuel oils obtained by
refining petroleum to distillate oil and residual oils.
Distillate oils are light oils, which are used chiefly to
heat homes and small buildings. Residual oils are heavy, and
used to provide energy to power utilities, factories and
large ships.
Oil-based paint products are also highly flammable

liquids. In the process of vaporization, flammable liquids
release vapor in much the same way as solid fuels. The rate
of vapor is greater for liquids than solids, since liquids
have less closely packed molecules. In addition, liquids can
release vapor over a wide range, example, gasoline starts to
give vapor at –40C (-45 F). This makes gasoline a
continuous fire hazard; it produces flammable vapor at
normal temperature.
General Characteristics of Liquids
1. They are matters with definite volume but no

definite shape.
2. They assume the shape of their vessel because there
is free movement of molecules.
3. They are slightly compressible. They are not capable
of indefinite expansion, unlike gas.

2 General Groups of Liquid Fuels
1. Flammable liquids – they are liquids having a flash

point of 37.8 C (100F) and a vapor pressure not
exceeding 40 psia (2068.6 um) at 37.8 C.
2. Combustible Liquids – these liquids have flash point

at or above 37.8 C (100F).
Burning Characteristics of Liquids
Since it is the vapors from the flammable liquid which

burn, the case of ignition as well as the rate of burning
can be related to the physical properties such as vapor
pressure, flash point, boiling point, and evaporation rate.
1. Liquids having vapors in the flammable range above

the liquid surface at the stored temperature have
rapid rate of flame propagation.
2. Liquids having flash points above stored temperature
have slower rate of flame propagation. The chemical
explanation is, it is necessary for the fire to heat
sufficiently the liquid surface to form flammable
vapor-air moisture before the flame will spread
through the vapor.
Factors affecting the Rate of Flame Propagation and

Burning of Liquids
 wind velocity
 temperature
 heat of combustion
 latent heat of evaporation
 atmospheric pressure
Latent heat is the quantity of heat absorbed by a

substance from a solid to a liquid and from a liquid to gas.
Conversely, heat is released during conversion of a gas to
liquid or liquid to a solid.

1. What are types of flames?
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2. What is the difference between fire and flame?
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LESSON 3 FIRE TECHNOLOGY
1. Familiarization of gas fuels

2. Discuss the classification of gases
3. Understanding of characteristics of gas fuel
The Gas Fuels
Gaseous fuels are those in which molecules are in rapid

movement and random motion. They have no definite shape or
volume, and assume the shape and volume of their container.
There are both natural and manufactured flammable gases. Gas
fuels flow easily through pipes and are used to provide
energy for homes, businesses, and industries. Examples of
gas fuels are acetylene, propane, and butanes.
Some properties of gas fuels are:
 compressibility
 expandability
 permeability (open to passage or penetration)
 diffusion (intermingling of molecules)
Compressibility and expandability refer to the

potential in changes in volume. Diffusion is the uniform
distribution of molecules of one substance through those of
another. Permeability means that other substances may pass
through or permeate a gas.
Characteristics of Gas Fuels
1. They are matters that have no definite shape.

2. They are composed of very tiny particles (molecules)
at constant random motion in a straight line
3. Gas molecules collide against one another and
against the wall of the container and are relatively
far from one another.
Classification of Gases:
1. Based on Source
a. Natural Gas – the gas used to heat buildings, cook

food, and provides energy for industries. It
consists chiefly of methane, a colorless and
odorless gas. Natural gas is usually mixed with
compounds of foul-smelling elements like sulfur so
gas leaks can be detected. Butane and propane, which
make up a small proportion of natural gas, become
liquids when placed under large amount of pressure.
When pressure is released, they change back to gas.
Such fuels, often called Liquefied Petroleum Gas
(LPG) or liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), are easily

stored and shipped as liquid.
b. Manufactured Gas – this gas like synthetic liquid

fuels is used chiefly where certain fuels are
abundant and others are scarce. Coal, petroleum, and
biomass can all be converted to gas through heating
and various chemical procedures.
2. According to Physical Properties
a. Compressed Gas – gas in which at all normal

temperature inside its container; exist solely in
the gaseous state under pressure. The pressure
depends on the pressure to which the container is
originally charged and how much gas remains in the
container. However, temperature affects the volume
and pressure of the gas.
b. Liquefied Gas – gas, which, at normal temperature

inside its container, exist partly in the liquid
state and partly in gaseous state and under pressure
as long as any liquid remains in the container. The
pressure basically depends on the temperature of the
liquid although the amount of liquid also affects
the pressure under some condition. A liquefied gas
exhibits a more complicated behavior as the result
of heating.
c. Cryogenic Gas – a liquefied gas which exists in

its container at temperature far below normal
atmospheric temperature, usually slightly above its
boiling point and correspondingly low to moderate
pressure. Examples of this gas are air, carbon
monoxide, ethylene, fluorine, helium, hydrogen,
methane, nitrogen, and oxygen.
3. According to Usage
a. Fuel Gases – flammable gases usually used for

burning with air to produce heat, utilize as power,
light, comfort, and process. Most commonly used
gases are natural gas and the LPG (butane and
propane).
b. Industrial Gases - This group includes a large

number of gases used for industrial processes as
those in welding and cutting (oxygen, acetylene);
refrigeration (freon, ammonia, sulfur dioxide);
chemical processing (hydrogen, nitrogen, ammonia,
chlorine); water treatment (chlorine, fluorine).
c. Medical Gases – those used for treatment such as

anesthesia (chloroform, nitrous oxide); respiratory
therapy (oxygen).
Burning of Gaseous Fuels

Gaseous fuels are already in the required Vapor State.
Only the proper intermixed with oxygen and sufficient heat
is needed for ignition. Gases like flammable liquids, always
produce a visible flame, they do not smolder.
Chemical Fuels
Chemical fuels, which are produced in solid and liquid

form, create great amounts of heat and power. They are used
chiefly in rocket engines. Chemical rocket propellants
consist of both a fuel and an oxidizer. A common rocket fuel
is the chemical hydrazine. The oxidizer is a substance, such
as nitrogen tetroxide, that contains oxygen. When the
propellant is ignited, the oxidizer provides the oxygen the
fuel needs to burn. Chemical fuels are also used in some
racing cars.
Nuclear Fuels
Nuclear fuels provide energy through the fission or

fusion of their atoms. Uranium is the most commonly used
nuclear fuel, though plutonium also provides nuclear energy.
When the atoms of these elements undergo fission, they
release tremendous amounts of heat. Nuclear fuels are used
mainly to generate electricity. They also power some
submarines and ships. Nuclear energy can also be produced
through the fusion of hydrogen atoms.
 Nuclear Fission – split of the nucleus of atoms

 Nuclear Fusion – combination of two light nuclei of
atom


1. What are the Classification of Gases?
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2. What is Gaseous fuel?
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LESSON 4 FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION
1. Familiarization of the heat elements

2. Definition of Heat
3. Understanding of heat production and heat transfer
THE HEAT ELEMENT
HEAT – It is the energy possessed by a material or

substance due to molecular activity.
In physics, heat is the transfer of energy from one part

of a substance to another or from one body to another by
virtue of a difference in temperature. Heat is energy in
transit; it always flows from substance at a higher
temperature to the substance at a lower temperature, raising
the temperature of the latter and lowering that of the
former substance, provided the volume of the bodies remains
constant. Heat does not flow from lower to a higher
temperature unless another form of energy transfer work is
always present.
The study of energy is rooted in the subject of

thermodynamics, a very logical science that carefully
defines energy, heat, temperature and other properties.
Heat is thermal energy in motion that travels from a hot

to a cold region. Thermal energy is a property of matter
directly associated with the concept of temperature.
Heat and Temperature
Heat should not be confused with temperature, which is

the measurement of the relative amount of heat energy
contained with in a given substance. Temperature is an
intensity measurement, with units in degrees on the Celsius
(centigrade), Fahrenheit, or Kelvin scales. Heat is the
measurement of quantity and is given in British thermal
units (Btu).
Temperature is the measurement of the degree of thermal

agitation of molecules; the hotness or coldness of
something. Thermometer is the instrument used to measure
temperature and commonly expressed in C, F, and K.
Although it is very easy to compare the relative

temperatures of two substances by the sense of touch, it is
impossible to evaluate the absolute magnitude of the
temperature by subjective reactions. Adding heat to a
substance, however, not only raises its temperature, causing
it to impart a more acute sensation of warmth, but also
produces alterations in several physical properties, which

may be measured with precision.
Specific Heat
The heat capacity or the measure of the amount of heat

required raising the temperature of a unit mass of a
substance one-degree. If the heating process occurs while
the substance is maintained at a constant volume or is
subjected to a constant pressure the measure is referred to
as a specific heat at constant volume.
Latent Heat
A number of physical changes are associated with the

change of temperature of a substance. Almost all substances
expand in volume when heated and contract when cooled. The
behavior of water between 0 and 4C (32 and 39 F)
constitutes an important exemption to this rule. The phase
of a substance refers to its occurrence as a solid, liquid,
or gas, and phase changes in pure substances occur at
definite temperatures and pressures. The process of changing
from solid to gas is referred to as SUBLIMATION, from solid
to liquid as MELTING and from liquid to vapor as
VAPORIZATION. If the pressure is constant, the process
occurs at constant temperature. The amount of heat to
produce a change of phase is called LATENT HEAT, and hence,
latent heats of sublimation, melting and vaporization exist.
If water is boiled in an open vessel at a pressure of 1 atm,
the temperature does not rise above 100C (212F), no matter
how much heat is added. For example, the heat that is
absorbed without changing the temperature of the water is
the latent heat, it is not lost but expended in changing the
water to steam and is then stored as energy in the steam, it
is again released when the steam is condensed to form water
(CONDENSATION). Similarly, if the mixture of water and ice
in a glass is heated, its temperature will not change until
all the ice is melted. The latent heat absorbed is used up
in overcoming the forces holding the particles of ice
together and is stored as energy in the water.
Temperature Scales
Five different temperature scales are in use today, they

are:
1. Celsius – it has a freezing point of 0C and a

boiling point of 100C. It is widely used through
out the world, particularly for scientific works.
2. Fahrenheit – it is used mostly in English-speaking
countries for purposes other than scientific works
and based on the mercury thermometer. In this scale,
the freezing point of water is 32F and the boiling
point is 212 F.
3. Kelvin or Absolute – it is the most commonly used
thermodynamic temperature scale. Zero is defined as
absolute zero of temperature that is, - 273.15 c,

or –459.67 F.
4. Rankine – is another temperature scale employing
absolute zero as its lowest point in which each
degree of temperature is equivalent to one degree on
the Fahrenheit scale. The freezing point of water
under this scale is 492 R and the boiling point is
672 R.
5. International Temperature Scale – In 1933, scientist
of 31 nations adopted a new international
temperature scale with additional fixed temperature
points, based on the Kelvin scale and thermodynamic
principles. The international scale is based on the
property of electrical resistively, with platinum
wire as the standard for temperature between –190 
and 660C.
Heat Production
There are five ways to produce heat:
1. Chemical – chemically produced heat is the result of

rapid oxidation.
2. Mechanical – mechanical heat is the product of

friction. The rubbing of two sticks together to
generate enough heat is an example.
3. Electrical – electrical heat is the product of

arcing, shorting or other electrical malfunction.
Poor wire connections, too much resistance, a loose
ground, and too much current flowing through an
improperly sized wire are other sources of
electrical heat.
4. Compressed gas – when a gas is compressed, its

molecular activity is greatly increased producing
heat.
5. Nuclear – Nuclear energy is the product of the

splitting or fusing of atomic particles (Fission or
fusion respectively). The tremendous heat energy in
a nuclear power plant produces steam to turn steam
turbines.
Heat Transfer
The physical methods by which energy in the form of

heat can be transferred between bodies are conduction and
radiation. A third method, which also involves the motion of
matter, is called convection.
Hence, there are three ways to transfer heat: Conduction,

Convection, and Radiation.
1. Conduction – it is the transfer of heats by molecular

activity with in a material or medium, usually a solid.
Direct contact is the underlying factor in conduction.

Example, if you touch a hot stove, the pain you feel is
a first result of conducted heat passing from the stove
directly to your hand. In a structural fire, super-
heated pipes, steel girders, and other structural
members such as walls and floors may conduct enough
heat to initiate fires in other areas of the structure.
2. Convection – it is the transfer of heat through a

circulating medium, usually air or liquid. Heat
transfer by convection is chiefly responsible for the
spread of fire in structures. The supper-heated gases
evolved from a fire are lighter than air, and
consequently rise, they can and do initiate additional
damage. In large fires, the high fireball that
accompanies the incident is referred to as a firestorm
and is an example of converted heat.
3. Radiation – radiated heat moves in wave and rays much

like sunlight. Radiated heat travels the speed, as does
visible light: 186,000 miles per second. It is
primarily responsible for the exposure hazards that
develop and exist during a fire. Heat waves travel in a
direct or straight line from their source until they
strike an object. The heat that collects on the surface
of the object or building in the path of the heat waves
is subsequently absorbed into its mass through
conduction.
Conduction requires physical contact between bodies or

portions of bodies exchanging heat, but radiation does not
require contact or the presence of any matter between the
bodies. Convection occurs when a liquid or gas is in contact
with a solid body at a different temperature and is always
accompanied by the motion of the liquid or gas. The science
dealing with the transfer of heat between bodies is called
heat transfer.
OXYGEN (Oxidizing Agent)
Oxygen as defined earlier is a colorless, odorless,

tasteless, gaseous chemical element, the most abundant of
all elements: it occurs free in the atmosphere, forming one
fifth of its volume, and in combination in water, sandstone,
limestone, etc.; it is very active, being able to combine
with nearly all other elements, and is essential to life
processes and to combustion.
The common oxidizing agent is oxygen present in air.

Air composes 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen, and 1 % inert gas
(principally Argon).
Take Note: 21% normal oxygen is needed to produce fire

in the presence of fuel and heat. 12% oxygen is insufficient
to produce fire, 14-15% oxygen can support flash point, and
16-21% oxygen can support fire point.


1.
3. What are the elements of heat?
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4. Define Heat?
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FIRE BEHAVIOR, CAUSES AND CLASSIFICATION
The behavior of fire maybe understood by considering the

principle of thermal balance and thermal imbalance. Thermal
Balance refers to the rising movement or the pattern of
fire, the normal behavior when the pattern is undisturbed.
Thermal imbalance, on the other hand is the abnormal
movement of fire due to the interference of foreign matter.
Thermal imbalance often confuses the fire investigator in
determining the exact point where the fire originated.
Dangerous Behavior of Fire
Fire is so fatal when the following conditions occurred:
1. Backdraft – it is the sudden and rapid (violent)

burning of heated gases in a confined area that occurs in
the form of explosion. This may occur because of improper
ventilation. If a room is not properly ventilated, highly
flammable vapors maybe accumulated such that when a door or
window is suddenly opened, the room violently sucks the
oxygen from the outside and simultaneously, a sudden
combustion occur, which may happen as an explosion
(combustion explosion).
Characteristics of Backdraft
 fire gases are under pressure

 existence of black smoke that is becoming dense gray
yellow
 confinement of excessive heat
 there is little flame or no visible flame
 smoke leave the building in puffs or by intervals
 windows are smoked stained
 muffled sounds are heard inside the building
 violent rushing of air inside when opened
2. Flashover – it is the sudden ignition of accumulated

radical gases produced when there is incomplete combustion
of fuels. It is the sudden burning of free radicals, which
is initiated by a spark or flash produced when temperature
rises until flash point is reached. When accumulated volume
of radical gases suddenly burns, there will be a very
intense fire that is capable of causing flames to jump at a
certain distance in the form of fireball. Fireballs can
travel to a hundred yards with in a few seconds.
3. Biteback - a fatal condition that takes place when the

fire resists extinguishment operations and become stronger
and bigger instead.
4. Flash Fire – better known as dust explosion. This may

happen when the metal post that is completely covered with

dust is going to be hit by lightning. The dust particles
covering the metal burn simultaneously thus creating a
violent chemical reaction that produces a very bright flash
followed by an explosion.
The Three Stages of Fire
1. Incipient Phase (Initial Stage) – under this stage,

the following characteristics are observed:
 normal room temperature

 the temperature at the base of the fire is 400-800
F
 ceiling temperature is about 200 F
 the pyrolysis products are mostly water vapor and
carbon dioxide, small quantities of carbon monoxide
and sulfides maybe present.
2. Free Burning Phase – it has the following

characteristics:
 accelerated pyrolysis process take place

 development of convection current: formation of
thermal columns as heat rises
 temperature is 800-1000 F at the base of fire,
1200-1600 F at ceiling
 pyrolytic decomposition moves upward on the
walls(crawling of the flame) leaving burnt patterns
(fire fingerprints)
 occurrence of flashover.
3. Smoldering Phase – this stage has the following

characteristics:
 oxygen content drops to 13% or below causing the

flame to vanish and heat to develop in layers,
 products of incomplete combustion increase in
volume, particularly carbon monoxide with an
ignition temperature of about 1125 F,
 ceiling temperature is 1000-1300 F,
 heat and pressure in the room builds up,
 building/room contains large quantities of
superheated fuel under pressure but little oxygen,
 when sufficient supply of oxygen is introduced,
backdraft occurs.
CLASSIFICATION OF FIRES
Based on Cause
1. Natural causes – such as
 Spontaneous heating – the automatic chemical

reaction that results to spontaneous combustion due
to auto-ignition of organic materials, the gradual
rising of heat in a confined space until ignition
temperature is reached.
 Lightning – a form of static electricity; a natural
current with a great magnitude, producing tremendous
amperage and voltage. Lightning usually strikes
objects that are better electrical conductors than
air. It can cause fire directly or indirectly.
Indirectly when it strikes telephone and other
transmission lines, causing an induced line surge.
It can also cause flash fire or dust explosion. When
lightning strikes steel or metal rod covered with
dust, the dust will suddenly burn thus resulting to
an explosion.
A lightning may be in the form of:
Hot Bolt – longer in duration; capable only of igniting

combustible materials
Cold Bolt – shorter in duration, capable of splintering
a property or literally blowing apart an entire structure,
produces electrical current with tremendous amperage and
very high temperature.
 Radiation of Sunlight – when sunlight hits a concave

mirror, concentrating the light on a combustible
material thereby igniting it.
2. Accidental Causes – such as
 Electrical accidents in the form of:
Short Circuit – unusual or accidental connections

between two points at different potentials (charge)
in an electrical circuit of relatively low
resistance.
Arcing – the production of sustained luminous
electrical discharge between separated electrodes;
an electric hazard that results when electrical
current crosses the gap between 2 electrical
conductors.
Sparking – production of incandescent particles when
two different potentials (charged conductors) come
in contact; occurs during short circuits or welding
operations.
Induced Current – induced line surge – increased
electrical energy flow or power voltage; induced
current; sudden increase of electrical current
resulting to the burning of insulating materials,
explosion of the fuse box, or burning of electrical
appliances.
Over heating of electrical appliances – the increase
or rising of amperage while electric current is
flowing in a transmission line resulting to the
damage or destruction of insulating materials, maybe
gradual or rapid, internal or external.
 Purely accidental causes

 Negligence and other forms of human error
3. Intentional causes (Incendiary)
If in the burned property, there are preparations or

traces of accelerant, plants and trailers, then the cause of
fire is intentional.
 Accelerant – highly flammable chemicals that are

used to facilitate flame propagation.
 Plant – the preparation and or gathering of
combustible materials needed to start a fire.
 Trailer – the preparation of flammable substances in
order to spread the fire.
Based on Burning Fuel (the classes of fire)
1. Class A Fire – Ordinary fires; they are the types of

fire resulting from the burning wood, paper,
textiles, rubber and other carbonaceous materials.
In short, this is the type of fire caused by
ordinary combustible materials.
2. Class B Fire – Liquid fires; they are caused by
flammable and or combustible liquids such as
kerosene, gasoline, benzene, oil products, alcohol
and other hydrocarbon deviations.
3. Class C Fire – Electrical fires; they are fires that
starts in live electrical wires, equipment, motors,
electrical appliances and telephone switchboards.
4. Class D Fire – Metallic fires; fires that result
from the combustion of certain metals in finely
divided forms. These combustible metals include
magnesium, potassium, powdered calcium, zinc,
sodium, and titanium.
FIRE FIGTHING OPERATIONS AND EXTINGUISHMENT
Fire fighting is an activity intended to save lives and

property. It is one of the most important emergency services
in a community. Fire fighters battle fires that break out
in homes, factories, office buildings, shops, and other
places. Fire fighters risk their lives to save people and
protect property from fires. The people who work as fire
fighters also help others who are involved in many kinds of
emergencies besides fires. For example, fire fighters
rescue people who may be trapped in cars or vehicles after
an accident. They aid victims of such disasters as
typhoons, floods, landslides, and earthquakes. Before the
advent of modern fire fighting techniques, fires often
destroyed whole settlements. When a fire broke but, all the
people in the community rushed to the scene to help. Today,
fire fighting organizations in most industrialized nations
have well-trained men and women and a variety of modern fire
fighting equipment.

History of Fire Fighting
Most fire services around the world were formed after a

major fire made people realize that lives and property would
have been saved if they had had a proper body of people
trained to fight fires. One of the first organized fire
fighting forces was established in Rome, about 500 B.C. The
first fire fighters were Roman slaves who, under the command
of the city's magistrates, were stationed on the walls and
the gates of Rome. These units were called Familia Publica.
However, this system was not very effective, probably
because the slaves had no choice in whether they fought
fires or not. In A.D. 6, after an enormous fire devastated
Rome, the Emperor Augustus created the vigiles, a fire
fighting force of 7,000 men that was divided into seven
regiments. Like many of today's fire services, the vigiles
had the power to inspect buildings to check for fire risks,
and could punish property owners whose negligence led to
fires. The vigiles' fire fighting equipment included pumps,
squirts, siphons, buckets, and ladders. Wicker mats and wet
blankets were used for rescue and salvage work. The Romans
developed advanced fire fighting equipment. But when the
empire fell, much of this technology was lost for centuries.
After the collapse of the Roman Empire, European cities

and towns became disorganized and nobody coordinated fire
fighting. Some people even thought that prayer was the best
way to control fires. Slowly, however, some fire laws
evolved. In many cities people were required to put out
their cooking and home fires at night. In some towns,
thatched roofs were forbidden and night watchmen were
employed to raise the alarm if they discovered a fire.
Organized fire services in Europe were usually only

formed after hugely destructive fires. The Great Fire of
London in 1666 led to the development of fire insurance
industries in England. These companies marked their insured
properties with metal badges called fire marks and formed
private fire brigades to protect those properties. Each
company's brigade attended only those premises bearing the
company's own fire mark. There was much competition, and
occasionally rival fire brigades even obstructed each other
in their fire fighting efforts. It was not until the 1800's
that London insurance companies began to cooperate and a
single London Fire Engine Establishment was formed. The new
service fought fires in any premises within the London area.
Serious blazes also caused death and destruction

elsewhere in Europe, and rulers began to realize that it was
necessary to have organized forces to deal with fires. In
France, groups of citizens kept watch for outbreaks of fire,
and regulations controlled rescue operations. In the
1600's, a number of serious fires spread terror throughout
Paris. The king of France bought 12 pumps, and a private
fire service was established. In 1750, the company of
firemen was mostly taken over by the army, but fires

continued to ravage the city and fire fighting efforts were
not always effective. In 1810, the Emperor Napoleon
attended a ball at the Austrian Embassy. A candle set the
curtains ablaze, and the fire spread quickly, causing a
dreadful panic. After this fire, Napoleon ordered the
creation of the Battalion de Sapeurs Pompiers and the French
Fire Brigade was born.
Better equipment for getting water to fires and for

fighting fires was developed in the 1500's. Tools included
syringes, which squirted water, but most people relied on
bucket brigades, relays of men passing buckets of water.
The problems with bucket brigades were that many men were
needed, it was very tiring work, and it was not very
efficient--buildings often burned to the ground. In 1672,
an uncle and nephew in Amsterdam, both called Jan van der
Heide, invented a flexible hose, which could be joined
together to form a long pipe. Later, the same men invented
a pump to deliver water through the hose, and fire fighting
became much more efficient. In many places around the
world, fire pumps were first drawn to fires by horses or
even by people. Warning bells enabled people to get out of
the way when the pumps were rushing to a fire. The German
company Daimler invented the first petrol-driven pump in
1885, but the pump still had to be taken to fires by horses.
Petrol-powered fire engines were introduced in the early
1900's, but many countries were slow to change from horse-
drawn pumps. Although today's fire services have a range of
modern equipment, fire can be just as dangerous now as it
was thousands of years ago.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)
Republic Act # 6975, the DILG Act of 1990 (Chapter 4,

Section 53-59) created the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)
to be responsible for the prevention and suppression of all
destructive fires and to enforce the laws on fire.
Fire Protection is the descriptive term referring to

the various methods used by the bureau to stop, extinguish
and control destructive fire for eventual prevention of loss
of life and property. It has the following objectives:
1. To prevent destructive fire from starting

2. To extinguish (stop or put out) on going destructive
fire
3. To confine a destructive fire at the place where it
began
4. To prevent loss of life and property when fire starts
Fire Prevention and Suppression refers to the various

safety measures utilized to stop harmful or destructive
fires from starting.
The laws related with the fire prevention and fire
protection in the Philippine setting includes PD # 1185,

Fire Code of the Philippine (26 August 1977), PD # 1096,
Building Code of the Philippine (19 February 1977)
The Bureau of Fire Protection is composed of well-trained

fire fighters. In fighting fires, they bring with them
ladders and pumps. Additional specialist vehicles can
provide turntable ladders, hydraulic platforms, extra water,
foam, and specialist appliances for hazardous incidents.
In some countries, such as the United States, fire-

fighting units are divided into engine companies and ladder
companies. Engine companies operate trucks called engines,
which carry a pump and hoses for spraying water on a fire.
Ladder companies use ladder trucks, which carry ladders of
various lengths. Ladder trucks also have a hydraulically
extended ladder or elevating platform to rescue people
through windows or to spray water from a raised position.
Fire fighters in the Philippines handle many types of

fires. Each type requires a different plan of action to put
it out. For example, the methods used to fight a building
fire differ greatly from those used to fight a forest or
grassland fire.
Factor Affecting Fire Protection and Control
Fire protection and control is affected by the

accumulation of fire hazards in a building or area.
Fire Hazard is any condition or act that increases or may

cause increase in the probability that fire will occur or
which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with fire
fighting operations and the safeguarding of life and
property
Conditions of Fire Hazards
1. Existence of dangerous or unlawful amount of

combustible or explosives in the building not designed
to store such materials.
2. Defective or improperly installed facilities/
equipment.
3. Lack of adequate exit facilities.
4. Obstruction at fire escapes or other designated opening
for fire fighters.
5. Dangerous occumulation of rubbish waste and other
highly combustible materials.
6. Accumulation of dust in ventilation system or of grease
in the kitchen.
7. Building under repair
8. Very old building or building is primarily made of
combustible materials

Fire Fighting Operations
Fire fighting operations refers to fire suppression

activities. In general the following procedures should be
observed:
1. PRE-FIRE PLANNING - this activity involves developing

and defining systematic course of actions that maybe
performed in order to realize the objectives of fire
protection: involves the process of establishing the
SOP in case fire breaks out.
2. EVALUATION – SIZE – UP (on-the-spot planning or sizing-

up the situation) - this is the process knowing the
emergency situation. It involves mental evaluation by
the operation officer-in-charge to determine the
appropriate course of action that provides the highest
probability of success.
Evaluation of the situation:
a. Learn the facts of the situation – by answering the

5 Ws – 1H
b. Understand the probabilities of fatal behavior of
fire
c. Know your own situation or capabilities – weaknesses
and
strengths: available manpower and equipment
d. Determine the specific course of action – entry or
rescue
3. EVACUATION – This the activity of transferring people,

livestock, and property away from the burning area to
minimize damage or destruction that the fire might
incur in case it propagates to other adjacent
buildings.
4. ENTRY – This is the process of accessing the burning

structure. Entry maybe done in a forcible manner.
Purposes of conducting forcible entry:
a. To provide access for fire fighters with equipment

for fire extinguishments
b. To provide rescue
c. To aid in ventilation
5. RESCUE – This is the operation of removing

(extricating), thus saving, people and other livestock
from the burning building and other involved
properties, conveying them to a secure place
6. EXPOSURE – also called cover exposure, this is the

activity of securing other buildings near the burning
structure in order to prevent the fire from the
extending to another building.
7. CONFINEMENT – This is the activity of restricting the

fire at the place (room) where it started : the process
of preventing fire from extending from another section
or form one section to another section of the involved
building.
8. VENTILATION – This the operation purposely conducted to

displace toxic gases. It includes the process of
displacing the heated atmosphere within the involved
building with normal air from outside atmosphere.
9. SALVAGE – The activity of protecting the properties

from preventable damage other than the fire. The steps
are a) remove the material outside the burning area,
and b) protecting or cover the materials by using
tarpaulins (cotton canvass treated with water
proofing).
10. EXTINGUISHMENT – This is the process of putting out

the main body of fire by using the 4 general methods of
fire extinguishments.
11. OVERHAUL – This is the complete and detailed check of

the structure and all materials therein to eliminate
conditions that may cause re-flash; involves complete
extinguishments of sparks or smouldering (glowing)
substances (embers) to prevent possibilities of re-
ignition or rekindling.
12. FIRE SCENE INVESTIGATION - This is the final stage of

fire suppression activities. It is an inquiry conducted
to know or determine the origin and cause of fire.
Objects of Fire Fighting Operations and Activities
1. Fighting a Building Fire
 After an alarm is received, fire fighters hurry to

the fire.
 The officer in command quickly sizes up the
situation and directs the fire fighters into
action.
 Their first and most important task is to rescue
people who may be trapped in the building.
 Ladder operators search for anyone who may be
trapped. In some buildings, they use ladders to
rescue people through windows. However, the
ladders on most trucks extend up to only about
eight storeys.
 Fire fighters use stairs or elevators to get to
people trapped on floors above the reach of the
ladders.
Meanwhile, fire fighters connect a hose from their pump

to a nearby fire hydrant, or else to water or foam stored on
the fire tender. Their first concern is to keep the flames
from spreading. The fire fighters direct water on the fire
until it is out. They also spray water on any nearby
buildings that are in danger of catching fire. Fire
fighters sometimes ventilate the building to let out the
smoke, heat, and gases that build up during a fire. They
open or break windows and sometimes cut holes in the roof or
walls. If the building were not ventilated, the heat and
the pressure of the gases could cause an explosion.
Fire fighters also try to save any furniture or other

property not damaged by the fire. They spread canvas or
plastic covers over such property to prevent water damage.
This process is called salvage. Finally, in a process
called overhaul, fire fighters search the building for
hidden sparks that might cause another blaze.
After the fire is out, the fire fighters try to find out
exactly where and how the fire started. The officer in
charge makes out a report that gives all the important facts
about the fire. The report includes information on
injuries, the cause of the fire, and the estimated cost of
repairing the damage. This is the initial investigation
stage.
2. Fighting a Forest Fire
Many grassland and forest fires occur in areas that are

hard to reach and far from a source of water. Local fire
brigades have trucks that carry water and can travel over
rough land. Observers in helicopters or aeroplanes may fly
over the fire and report on its size and behavior.
Sometimes, helicopters or aeroplanes are also used to carry
fire fighters to the fire or to drop chemicals that slow the
spread of the fire.
Grassland and forest fires often spread rapidly and are

difficult to put out. Fire fighters try to keep the fire
within the smallest area possible, and so they may first
create a firebreak, or fire line. The fire fighters clear a
strip of land some distance in front of the racing flames.
They cut down the grass or trees and scrape away some of the
soil with shovels. The fire fighters spray water or throw
soil on the flames until the fire is out.
In some cases, fire fighters allow a grassland or

forest fire to burn. They may do so if the fire has been
caused by lightning or some other natural event. Such fires
are a regular part of the life cycle of grasslands and
forests. However, fire fighters do try to limit or put out
all forest and grassland fires that threaten people or
property.
3. Emergency Rescue Operations
Our fire fighting organizations have rescue companies

to handle non-fire emergencies. For example, rescue workers
may be called to free people trapped under the wreckage of a

fallen building or in a car after an accident. They have
specialized teams to rescue people who are stranded
underwater or in swift-flowing water, or on cliffs and in
other high places.
4. Emergency Medical Operations
Many fire fighters provide medical care in non-fire

emergencies before the patient is taken to the hospital.
These units make up an important part of their community's
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system. They are the so
called Paramedics.
Some fire fighting services provide only a basic, "first

response" service. Ambulance workers or other emergency
workers then provide more advanced treatment and transport
the patient to the hospital. Paramedic units operate
ambulances and use communication equipment to stay in touch
with a nearby hospital. Under the direction of a doctor,
they may use advanced medical equipment and administer
drugs. They may also transport the patient to the hospital.
5. Fire Prevention and Fire Safety
To help prevent fires and reduce fire losses, local fire

fighting services inspect public buildings. They also teach
people about fire safety. Many have a separate division
that handles fire prevention and fire safety programmes.
6. Public Building Inspections
In consonance with the provisions of the Building Code

(PD 1185), the Fire Bureau conduct inspection buildings as
theatres, stores, schools, and hospitals. The code
specifies certain requirements like portable fire
extinguishers, a certain number of exits, and other fire
safety features in public buildings. Large buildings maybe
required to provide built-in sprinkler systems and special
water lines to which fire hoses can be attached and to have
fire alarm systems.
What is a Sprinkle System?
A sprinkler system consists of a network of pipes
installed throughout a building. The pipes carry water to
nozzles in the ceiling. The heat from a fire causes the
nozzles directly above the fire to open and spray water.
The Fire Bureau personnel inspect public buildings to
enforce the local code. The officials check the operating
condition of the fire protection systems. They note the
number and location of exits and fire extinguishers. The
inspection also covers housekeeping practices and many other
matters that affect fire safety. Fire inspectors may also
review plans for a new building to make sure it meets the
safety code.
7. Public Education Program

Fire fighting services work with other local agencies

to teach people how to prevent fires and what to do during a
fire. The fire fighting officials serve as instructors or
advisers in fire safety courses in schools.
They educate the public about deaths caused by fires that
occur in private homes. Many home fires are caused by
leaving the kitchen when food is cooking, disposing of
cigarettes improperly, misusing portable heating equipment,
and placing flammable or combustible items too close to heat
sources.
Fire fighting groups advise people to install smoke
detectors in their homes.
What is a Smoke Detector?
Smoke detector is a device that sounds an alarm if a

small amount of smoke enters their sensors. Smoke detectors
are attached to the ceiling or wall in several areas of the
home. Fire protection experts recommend at least one
detector for each floor of a residence.
Fire fighters also recommend that people have portable

fire extinguishers in their homes. A person must be sure,
however, to call the fire fighting service before trying to
extinguish a fire. It is also important to use the right
kind of extinguisher for the type of fire involved.
The Fire Extinguishments Theory
The Fire Extinguishments Theory maintains that “to

extinguish a fire, interrupt or eliminate the supply of any
or all of the elements of fire.” Fire can be extinguished by
reducing/ lowering the temperature, eliminating the fuel
supply, or by stopping the chemical chain reaction.
4 General Methods of Fire Extinguishment
1. Extinguishment by Temperature Reduction
 Cooling the temperature of the fire environment:

usually done by using water.
 Lower down the temperature to cool the fuel to a
point where it does not produce sufficient vapors
that burn.
2. Extinguishment by Fuel Removal
 Elimination of the fuel supply/ source which maybe

done by:
a. stopping the flow of liquid fuel
b. preventing the production of flammable gas

c. removing the solid fuel at the fire path
d. allowing the fire to burn until the fuel is
consumed
3. Extinguishment by Oxygen Dilution
a. reduction of oxygen concentration at the

burning area
b. by introducing inert gases
c. by separating oxygen from the fuel
4. Extinguishment by Chemical Inhibition
 Some extinguishments agents, like dry chemical and

halon, interrupt the production of flame resulting
to rapid extinguishment of the fire. This method
is effective only on burning gas and liquid fuels
as they cannot burn in smoldering mode of
combustion.
What are the methods of extinguishing the 4 Classes of Fire?
1. CLASS A FIRES – by quenching and cooling: water is the

best agent in cooling the burning solid materials;
water has a quenching effect that can reduce the
temperature of a burning material below its ignition
temperature; (Fire extinguishers which have water,
sand, acid, foam and special solution containing alkali
methyl dust, as found in the loaded stream
extinguisher, should be used for this type of fire.)
2. CLASS B FIRES – by smothering or blanketing (oxygen

exclusion). This type of fire is put or controlled by
foam, loaded stream, carbon dioxide, dry chemical and
vaporizing liquid.
3. CLASS C FIRES – controlled by a non-conducting

extinguishing agent: the safest procedure is to always
de-energize the electrical circuit. Extinguishers that
should be used to put out these type of fires are
Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers, Dry Chemical, Vaporizing
liquids.
4. CLASS D FIRES – by using special extinguishing agents

marked specifically for metals. GE type, meth LX, Lith
X, Meth L, Kyl, dry sand and dry talc can put out class
D fires

5. CLASS E FIRES – only combination of the above methods.
Fire Extinguishers
A Fire Extinguisher is a mechanical device, usually made

of metal, containing chemicals, fluids, or gasses for
stopping fires, the means for application of its contents
for the purpose of putting out fire (particularly small fire
) before it propagates, and is capable of being readily
moved from place to place.
It is also a portable device used to put out fires of

limited size.
What are the types of Fire Extinguishers?
1. Water Fire Extinguisher – extinguisher filled with

water use of fight Class A and Class B fires except
class C fires.
2. Liquefied Fire Extinguisher – those extinguishers

that contain Carbon Monoxide Gas use to fight class
A, B, and C fires
3. Dry Chemical Extinguisher – those that contain

chemical powder intended to fight all classes of
fires.
4. Foam Extinguisher– contains sodium bicarbonate and a

foam-stabilizing agent in a larger compartment and a
solution of aluminum sulfate in an inner cylinder;
reaction between the two solutions forms a
stabilized foam of carbon dioxide bubbles.
5. Soda-acid Fire Extinguisher – filled with sodium

bicarbonate mixed with water; a small bottle of
sulfuric acid is suspended inside (near the top) in
such a way that when the extinguisher is turned up-
side-down, the acid mixes with sodium bicarbonate;
carbon dioxide is formed by the reaction which
results to the building of pressure inside the
extinguisher; this pressure forces the water
solution out from the container through a hose.
6. Vaporizing Liquid Fire Extinguisher – contains non-

conducting liquid, generalization carbon
tetrachloride or chlorobromethane; operation is by
manual pumping or using a stored pressure; the
stream of liquid that is expelled is vaporized by
the heat of the fire and forms a smothering blanket.
This type is usually used in fires involving
flammable liquids or electrical equipment.
7. Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher – effective against

burning liquids and fires in live electrical
equipment; used mainly to put out Class C fires.
What are examples of extinguishing agents?
1. MULTI-PURPOSE DRY CHEMICALS like the Mono-Ammonium

Phosphate ( NH H PO )
2. HALON 1211 or Bromochlorodifluoromethane
3. AFFF – (Aqueous Film Forming Foam), is a synthetic

foam-forming liquid designed for use with fresh
water.
4. CARBON DIOXIDE – a chemical that can deliver a quick

smothering action to the flames, reducing the oxygen
and suffocating the fire. Carbon dioxide dissipates
without leaving any contamination or corrosive
residue.
What are the markings required on Fire Extinguishers?
Under (Rule 37, Sec. 106 of PD 1185), all fire

extinguishers manufactured or sold in the Philippines must
be labelled or marked to show at least the following:
1. Date of original filling

2. Chemical Contents
3. Type of extinguisher
4. Operating Instruction and Safe Procedure in usage
5. Name and address of the manufacturer
6. Name and address of the dealer.
What are the prohibited types of fire extinguishers?
Rule 37, Sec. 104 of IRR of PD 1185 provides that the

following types of fires extinguishers are prohibited for
manufacture or sale:
1. All inverting types which make it necessary to invert

the container before the extinguisher’s operation
2. Soda-acid extinguishers
3. Stored pressure or cartridge operated foam solution,
unless and air-aspiring nozzle is provided
4. Vaporizing liquid extinguishers using carbon
tetrachloride or chlorobromomethane in any
concentration of formulation
5. Vaporizing liquid extinguishers of less than one
kilogram extinguishing agent
6. Glass bulb, “grenade” type, or “bomb” type of
vaporizing liquid extinguishers which have to be thrown
to the fire or are mounted on specific location and
which operate upon the melting of a fusible link.
7. Thermatic special hazards single station extinguishers
with extinguishing capability of less than four and a

half (4.5) cubic meters
8. Other types which maybe hereinafter prohibited.
What are the prohibited acts involving the operation of fire

extinguishers?
From the same legal basis above, the following are

declared prohibited acts concerning the use of fire
extinguishers:
1. Removal of inspection tags attached to fire

extinguishers
2. Refilling a discharge extinguisher with a extinguishing
agent other than what the unit was designed to contain
3. Selling fire extinguishers not appropriate to the
hazard
4. Selling fire extinguishers prohibited by Rule 37,
Section 104
5. Selling defective or substandard extinguishers
6. Using/installing two or more thermatic special hazard
vaporizing liquid units in rooms with volume greater
than the nominal capability of one unit.
7. Installing pressure gauges in fire extinguishers which
do not indicate the actual pressure of the interior of
vessel such as, but not limited to use of uncalibrated
gauges, not providing or blocking the connection
between the gauge and the interior, or fixing the
indicator/needle to indicate a certain pressure.
What are the General Operating Procedures in Fire

Extinguishment?
The general operating procedures in using a fire

extinguisher may be modified by the acronym PASS.
P - Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher that

keeps the handle from being pressed. Press the plastic or
thin wire inspection band.
A– Aim the nozzle or outlet towards the fire. Some hose
assemblies are dipped to the extinguisher body. Released it
and then point at the base of the fire.
S – Squeeze the handle above carrying handle to discharge
the extinguishing agent inside. The handle can be released
to stop the discharge at any time.
S – Sweep the nozzle sideways at the base of the flame to
disperse the extinguishing agent.
After the fire is out, probe for remaining smouldering hot

spots or possible re-flash of flammable liquids. Make sure
the fire is out before leaving the burned area.
Fire Fighting Equipment
The most important equipment for fire fighters includes:

1. Communication Systems
They are necessary to alert fire fighters to the outbreak

of a fire. Most fire alarms are telephoned to the fire
department. Many countries have introduced a simple, 3-
digit number as the telephone number to call in emergencies.
This number can be dialed from almost any telephone and from
most pay phones without a coin. Dialing this number is
free. In the Philippines, the emergency line is 166.
2. Fire Vehicles
Fire fighters have several types of fire vehicles. The

main types are (1) engines, (2) ladder appliances, and (3)
rescue vehicles.
Engines, also called water tenders, have a large pump

that takes water from a fire hydrant or other source. The
pump boosts the pressure of the water and forces it through
hoses. Engines carry several sizes of hoses and nozzles.
Many also have a small-diameter hose called a booster line,
which is wound on a reel. The booster line is used chiefly
to put out small outdoor fires.
Ladder appliances - There are two kinds of ladder

appliances--turntable ladders and hydraulic platforms.
A turntable ladder appliance has a metal extension

ladder mounted on a turntable. The ladder can be raised as
high as 30 meters, or about eight storeys.
A hydraulic platform truck has a cage-like platform

that can hold several people. The platform is attached to a
lifting device that is mounted on a turntable. The lifting
device consists of either a hinged boom (long metal arm) or
an extendable boom made of several sections that fit inside
each other. The boom on the largest vehicles can extend 46
meters. A built-in hose runs the length of the boom and is
used to direct water on a fire. In most cases, a pump in a
nearby engine generates the pressure needed to spray the
water.
Fire Fighting Vehicles - are equipped with portable

ladders of various types and sizes. They also carry
forcible entry tools, which fire fighters use to gain entry
into a building and to ventilate it to let out smoke.
Common forcible entry tools include axes, power saws, and
sledge hammers.
Rescue Vehicles are enclosed vehicles equipped with many

of the same kinds of forcible entry tools that ladder
appliances carry. But rescue vehicles also carry additional
equipment for unusual rescues. They have such tools as
oxyacetylene torches, for cutting through metal, and
hydraulic jacks, for lifting heavy objects. They may also
carry other hydraulic tools. With a hydraulic rescue tool,
fire fighters can apply a large amount of pressure to two

objects to squeeze them together or prise them apart. The
tool is often used to free people trapped in cars and other
vehicles after an accident. Many rescue vehicles also carry
small hand tools, such as crowbars and saws, and ropes and
harnesses for rescuing people from water or high places. In
addition, they carry medical supplies and equipment.
Special Fire Vehicles include airport crash tenders and

hazardous materials units. Airport crash tenders are
engines that spray foam or dry chemicals on burning
aircraft. Water is ineffective against many aircraft fires,
such as those that involve jet fuel or certain metals.
In addition to the above fire fighting equipment, fire

fighters are also required to use protective clothing.
Protective Clothing - clothing for protection against

flames, falling objects, and other hazards. They wear coats
and trousers made of fire-resistant material. Other
clothing includes special boots, gloves, and helmets. Fire
fighters also use a breathing apparatus to avoid inhaling
smoke and toxic gases.
Fire Prevention and Public Safety
As mentioned earlier, Fire Prevention is a term for the

many safety measures used to keep harmful fires from
starting. Fires not only cause extensive damage to valuable
property, but also responsible for large numbers of deaths.
What are the methods of Fire Prevention?
Individuals, groups, and communities use three main

methods to prevent fires:
1. Laws and Regulations - Many countries have codes and

standards that require certain types of fire
retardant materials and electric wiring to be used
in buildings.
2. Inspection of buildings and other property - Fire
brigades and other public agencies inspect public
buildings for fire hazards and recommend corrective
action. In some communities, homeowners may agree
to have their homes inspected for fire hazards.
3. Public education about fire safety and prevention -
Education is a vital part of fire prevention
programmes because people cause to prevent--almost
all fires. Fire brigades, community groups, and
schools teach children and adults about fire hazards
and work to reduce fires throughout the community.

FIRE INVESTIGATION
In the Philippines, the Bureau of fire Protection is the

main government agency responsible for the prevention and
suppression of all destructive fires on buildings, houses
and other structures, forest, land transportation vehicles
and equipments, ships or vessels docked at piers or major
seaports, petroleum industry installation, plane crashes and
other similar incidents, as well as the enforcement of the
Fire Code and other related laws. It has the major power to
investigate all causes of fires and necessary, file the
proper complaints with the proper authority that has
jurisdiction over the case (R.A. no. 6975, sec. 54).
Why Fires should be investigated?
The very reason why fires should be investigated is to

determine the cause of the fire in order to prevent similar
occurrences. The determination of the origin and cause of
fire is arrived at only after a thorough investigation.
Since basic investigation is prelude to the discovery of the
true cause of the fire, an understanding of the chemistry of
fire and its attendant behavior should be a concern for
successful investigation.
Who are qualified to investigate fires?
A fire investigator should have the following traits:

1. Possession of knowledge of investigational
techniques.
2. He should have an insight of human behavior.
3. He should have a first hand knowledge of the
chemistry of fire and its behavior
4. He should be resourceful.
Is Fire Investigation Complex and Unique?
Fire investigation is complex and unique because of the

following reasons:
1. Fire destroys evidence
2. If it is Arson, it is planned, motivated and
committed is discreet.
3. Rarely can there be an eyewitness in Arson.
What are the roles of the Firemen in Fire Investigation?
Firemen are usually at the crime scene ahead of the fire

investigators. Hence, they are valuable sources of
information. They are the so-called “Eyes and Ears” of the
police before, during and after the fire has been placed
under control. The information taken from them may be
categorize as:

1. Information attainable or developed prior to the
arrival at the scene
2. Information available to the firemen at the scene
3. Information available during overhaul and
thereafter.
Legal Aspect of Fire Investigation
ARSON defined
Arson is the intentional or malicious destruction of

property by fire.
It is the concern of fire investigation to prove

malicious intent of the offender. Intent must be proved,
otherwise, no crime exist. The law presumes that a fire is
accidental, hence criminal designs must be shown. Fire cause
by accident or criminal design must be shown. Fire cause by
accident or negligence does not constitute arson.
What is Destructive Arson?
Under Article 320 of the Revised Penal Code, as amended,

the penalty of Reclusion Perpetua to Death shall be imposed
upon any person who shall burn:
1. One (1) or more buildings or edifices,

consequent to one single act of burning, or as a
result of simultaneous burnings, or committed on
several or different occasions.
2. Any building of public or private ownership,
devoted to the public in general or where people
usually gather or congregate for a definite purpose
such as, but not limited to official governmental
function or business, private transaction, commerce,
trade workshop, meetings and conferences, or merely
incidental to a definite purpose such as but not
limited to hotels, motels, transient dwellings,
public conveyance or stops or terminals, regardless
of whether the offender had knowledge that there are
persons in said building or edifice at the time it
is set on fire and regardless also of whether the
building is actually inhabited or not.
3. Any train or locomotive, ship or vessel,
airship or airplane devoted to transportation or
conveyance, or for public use, entertainment or
leisure.
4. Any building, factory, warehouse installation
and any appurtenances thereto, which are devoted to
the service to public utilities.
5. Any building the burning of which is for the
purpose of concealing or destroying evidence of
another violation of law, or for the purpose of
concealing bankruptcy or defrauding creditors or to

collect from insurance.
Irrespective of the application of the above enumerated

qualifying circumstances, the penalty of reclusion to death
shall likewise be imposed when the arson is perpetrated or
committed by two or more persons or by group of persons,
regardless of whether their purpose is merely to burn or
destroy the building or the building merely constitutes an
overt act in the commission or another violation of law.
The penalty of Reclusion Perpetua to Death shall also be

imposed upon any person who shall burn:
1. any arsenal, shipyard, storehouse or

military power or firework factory, ordinance,
storehouse, archives or general museum of the
government.
2. in an inhabited place, any storehouse or
factory of inflammable or explosives materials.
If the consequence of the commission of any of the acts

penalized under this Article, death results, the mandatory
penalty of death shall be imposed (sec. 10, RA 7659).
What is the basis of criminal liability in arson?
1. Kind and character of the building burned

2. Location of the building
3. Extent or value of the damage
4. Whether inhabited or not.
What are other forms of arson?
Other forms of arson refer to those enumerated under

Article 321 of the Revised Penal Code, as amended like the
following:
1. Setting fires to any building, farmhouse,

warehouse, hut, shelter, or vessel in port, knowing
it to be occupied at the time by one or more person.
2. Building burned is a public building and
value of damage exceeds six thousands pesos
(P6000.00).
purpose is to destroy evidence kept therein to be
used in instituting prosecution for punishment of
violators of law, irrespective of the amount of
damage.
purpose is to destroy evidence kept therein to be
used in legislative, judicial or administrative
proceeding, irrespective of the damage, if the
evidence is to be used against defendant of any
crime punishable under existing law.
Suggested Readings:
1. U.S vs. Evangelista, 39 Phil. 825

2. People vs. Tamba, 10 SCRA 296
3. People vs. Paterno, 47 O.G 4600
4. People vs. Villarosa, 54 O.G 3482
5. People vs. Macalma, 44 Phil. 170
Arson of Property of Small Value (Art. 323, RPC)
Burning of any uninhabited hut, storehouse, barn, shed,

or any other property, under circumstances clearly excluding
all danger of the fire spreading, value of the property not
exceed 25.00 pesos.
Suggested Readings:
1. People vs. Alvarez, 52 Phil. 65
2. People vs. Herrera, (C.A) GR no. 5782-R, May 15,
1951
3. People vs. Camporedondo
Crimes Involving Destruction (Art 324, RPC)
The offender causes destruction by any of the following

means:
1. explosion
2. discharge of electric current
3. inundation, sinking or stranding of a vessel
4. taking up the rails from a railway track
5. malicious changing of railway signals for the
safety of moving trains
6. destroying telegraph wires and telegraph post or
those any other communication system
7. by using any other agency or means of destruction
as effective as the above
Burning one’s own property as a means to commit arson

(Read Case of U.S vs. Budiao, 4 Phil. 502) (Article 325,
RPC)
Article 326, RPC – Setting Fire to Property Exclusively

Owned By the Offender
This act is punished if the purpose of the offender is

to:
1. Defraud or cause damage to another or
2. damaged is actually caused upon another’s property
even if such purpose is absent or
3. thing burned is a building in an inhabited place.
Presidential Decree No. 1613 – Amending the Law on Arson
Special Aggravating Circumstance in Arson
1. If committed with intent to gain:

2. If committed with the benefit of another:
3. If the offender is motivated by spite or hatred
towards the owner or occupant of the property
burned:

4. If committed by a syndicate (3 or more persons).
Prima Facie Evidence of Arson
1. If the fire started simultaneously in more than one

part of the building or establishment
2. If substantial amounts of flammable substance or
materials are stored within the building not
necessary in the business of the offender or for
house hold use.
3. If gasoline, kerosene, petroleum, or other flammable
or combustible substances or materials soaked
therewith or containers thereof, or any mechanical,
electrical, chemical, or electronic contrivance
designed to start a fire, a fire, or ashes or traces
of any of the foregoing are found in the ruins or
premises of the burned building or property.
4. If the building or property is insured for
substantially more than its actual value at the time
of the issuance of the policy.
5. If during the lifetime of the corresponding fire
insurance policy more than two fires have occurred
in the same or other premises owned or under the
control of the offender and / or insured.
6. If shortly before the fire, a substantial portion of
the effects insured and stored in a building or
property had been withdrawn from the premises except
in the ordinary course of business.
7. If a demand for money or other valuable
consideration was made before the fire in exchange
for the desistance of the offender or the safety of
the person or property of the victim.
What Constitutes Arson?
1. Burning – to constitute burning, pyrolysis must

takes place. In other words, there must be burning
or changing, i.e. the fibber of the wood must be
destroyed, its identity changed.
2. Wilfulness – means intentional, and implies that the
act was done purposely and intentionally.
3. Malice – it denotes hatred or a desire for revenge.
4. Motive – is the moving cause that induces the
commission of the crime.
5. Intent – is the purpose or design with which the act
is done and involves the will.
Methods of Proof in Arson
Physical evidences in arson are often destroyed. To prove

arson was committed, Corpus Delicti must be shown and
identify of the arsonist must be established. Corpus
Delicti (body of the crime) is the fact of that crime was
committed. The following must show it:

1. Burning – that there was fire that may be shown by

direct testimony of complaint, firemen responding to
the crime, other eyewitnesses. Burned parts of the
building may also indicate location.
2. Criminal Design – must show that it was wilfully and
intentionally done. The presence of incendiary
devices, flammables such as gasoline and kerosene
may indicate that the fire is not accidental.
3. Evidence of Intent – When valuables were removed
from the building before the fire, ill-feeling
between the accused and the occupants of the
building burned, absence of effort to put off fire
and such other indications.
What are basic lines of inquiry in Arson Investigation?
The arson investigator must have to inquire on the

following a) point of origin of fire b) motives of arsonist
c) prime suspects d) the telltale signs of arson.
1. Point of origin of fire
Initially, the important point to be established is the

point of origin of fire. In other words, at what particular
place in the building the fire started? This may be
established by an examination of the witness, by an
inspection of the debris at the fire scene and by studying
the fingerprint of fire. The fingerprint of fire occurs
during the free burning stage of the fire when pyrolytic
decomposition moves upward on the walls leaving a bunt
pattern.
Witnesses must be questioned as to:

1. His identity
2. What attracted his attention
3. Time of observation
4. His position in relation to the fire at the time of
observation
5. Exact location of the blaze
6. Size and intensity
7. Rapidity of spread
8. Color of flame and odor if he is in a position this
9. Any other person in the vicinity beside the witness
Note fire setting mechanism
1. matches
2. candles
3. electrical system
4. mechanical means
5. chemical methods

2. Motive of Arsonist
To understand the motives of arsonist, the arson

investigator have to note the following that fires are
set by:
Persons with Motives
a. Those with desire to defraud the Insurer

b. Employees or such other person who have a
grievance (Fire revenge)
c. Those with desire to conceal evidence of a
crime
d. Those who set fire for purposes of intimidation
People without motives
a. Those who are mentally ill

b. Pathological fire-setters
c. Pyros and the Psychos
Motives of Arsonist
1. Economic Gain
b. Insurance fraud – benefiting

c. Desire to dispose merchandise – lost of
market value being out of season, lack of raw
materials, over supply of merchandise can be a big
reason for arson.
d. Existing business transaction that the
arsonist would like to avoid such as impending
liquidation, settlement of estate, need for cash,
prospective business failure, and increase
rentals
e. Profit by the Perpetrator other than the
Assured like insurance agents wishing business
with the assured, business competitors planning to
drive others, person seeking job as personnel
protection, salvagers and contractors wishing to
contact another building
2. Concealment of Crime - When the purpose of hiding a

crime or committing a crime, arson was used as
means.
3. Punitive Measure - Committing arson to inflict
injury to another due to hatred, jealousy and
revenge.
4. Intimidation or Economic Disabling - Arsonist as

saboteurs, strikers and racketeers to intimidate
management or employer.
5. Pyromania
A pyromaniac having the uncontrollable impulse to

burn anything without any motivation. They do not run
away from the fire scene since they love watching fire

burning.
Types of Pyromania
a. Abnormal Youth – epileptics, imbeciles and

morons
b. Hero Type – a person set a building on fire and
pretends to discover it, turn on the alarm or make
some rescue works to appear as “hero”
c. Drug addicts and alcoholics
d. Sexual deviates and perverts.
3. Prime Suspects (and the Prima Facie Evidences)
The development of prime suspects - this involves

identification results from the full development of leads,
clues and traces, the testimony particularly eyewitnesses
and the development of expert testimony, The following
technique may serve the investigation:
1. Search of the fire scene for physical evidence:

a. Protection of the scene
b. Mechanics of search
c. Collection and preservation of evidences
d. Laboratory aids
2. Background study of policyholders, occupants of

premises, owner of building or other person having
major interest in the fire.
3. Interviews and interrogations of persons who
discovered the fire, and the one who turned the
first alarm, firemen, and eyewitnesses.
4. Surveillance
4. The Tell Tale Signs of Arson
These signs maybe obvious that the first fireman at the

scene will suspects arson or they maybe so well concealed
that moths of patient investigation to show that it is set
off will be required.
1. Burned Building – the type of the building may

indicate a set fire under certain circumstance. A
fire of considerable size at the time the first
apparatus arrive at the scene is suspicious if it is
a modern concrete or semi-concrete building.
2. Separate fires – when two or more separate fire

breaks out within a building. The fire is certainly
suspicious.
3. Color of Smoke – some fire burn with little or no

smoke but they are exception. The observation of the
smoke must be made at the start of the fire since
once the fire has assumed a major proportion, the
value of the smoke is lost, because the smoke will
not indicate the material used by the arsonist
a.) When white smoke appears before the water

from the fire hose comes in contact with the
fire, it indicates humid material burning.
Example – burning hay, vegetable materials,
phosphorus (with garlic odor).
b.) Biting smoke, irritating the nose and throat

and causing lacrymation and coughing indicates
presence of chlorine.
c.) Black smoke indicates lack of air if

accompanied by large flames it indicates
petroleum products and rubber.
d.) Reddish-brown smoke indicates nitrocellulose,

S1, H2, S04, HN03, or HCI.
e.) Meaning of color of Smoke and Fire:
 Black smoke with deep red flame – petroleum

products, tar, rubber, plastics, etc.
 Heavy brown with bright red flame – nitrogen
products
 White smoke with bright flame – magnesium
products
 Black smoke with red and blue green flame –
asphalt
 Purple-violet flame – potassium products
 Greenish-yellow flame – Chloride or Manganese
products
 Bright reddish yellow flame – Calcium
products
8. Color of flame – The color of the flame is a good

indication of the intensity of the fire, an
important factor in determining incendiarism.
9. Amount of Heat – A reddish glow indicates heat of
5000 degrees centigrade, a real bright read about
100 degrees centigrade. Red flames indicate of
petroleum. Blue flame indicates use of alcohol as
accelerant.
10. Smoke Marks – An experience investigation will
determine the volume of smoke involved at a fire and
the character as residue deposited on walls or
elsewhere. Smoke in marks have often been of
assistance in determining the possibility of a fire
having more than one place of origin.
11. Size of Fire – This is important when correlated
with the type of alarm, the time received and the
time of arrival of the first fire apparatus. Fires
make what might be termed a normal progress. Such
progress can be estimated after an examination of
the material burned the building and the normal
ventilation offered of the fire. The time element
and the degree of headway by the flames become

important factors to determine factors to determine
possible incendiarism.
12. Direction of Travel – While it is admitted that no
two fires burn in identical fashion, yet it can be
shown that fire makes normal progress through
various types of building materials, combustibility
of contents, channel of ventilation and
circumstances surrounding the sending of alarm, an
experienced investigator can determine whether a
fire spread abnormally fast.
13. Intensity – The degree of heat given off by a fire
and the color of its flame oftentimes indicate that
some accelerant has been added to the material
normally present in a building and the investigator
must look for further evidence pointing to use of
such accelerant. Difficulty in extinguishing the
fire is often a lead to suspect presence of such
fluid as gasoline and kerosene.
14. Odor – The odor of gasoline, alcohol, kerosene and
other inflammable liquids which are often used as
accelerant is characteristics and oftentimes
arsonist are trapped because of this telltale sign.
Most of fire – setters are inclined to use substance
which will make the blaze certain and at the same
time burn up any evidence of their crime.
15. Condition of Content – Persons tending to set their
house on fire frequently remove objects of value
either materially or sentimentally. Store and other
business establishments oftentimes remove a major
portion of their content or replace valuable
merchandise without of style articles.
THE FIRE ORIGIN
One of the first things to look for is the origin of the

fire. Usually, accidental fires have only one origin;
sometimes an arson fire will have several origins. That is,
there will be two or more fires. Normally, a fire burns
outward laterally in all directions, the heat generated
moves up, and fires seldom burns down. Ventilation will also
affects the burning pattern; but without unusual
ventilation, fires burn equally in all directions except
down. It may be necessary to go to several spots and point
back to the most damaged areas; where the lines crosses
probably will be the origin of the fire.
Explosions also feed in all directions; the heat effect

is usually intense. The point of explosion is usually easier
to determine than the point of origin of other accelerants.
Unless the investigator has ad special training in this type
investigation, it probably would be to his advantage to call
in a specialist.
Alligator Pattern - The alligator pattern (checking of

charred wood giving it the appearance of alligator skin)
caused by the fire often can be used to trace the fire to
its origin. The pattern at the point of origin is smaller

and deeper than the rest of the areas. The pattern is also
smaller and deeper at points where flammable liquids were
used.
Information from people - Many investigators have found

that information from people help them know what to look for
the fire scene. The good investigator knows how to how to
interview people to get information that can help determine
the origin of the fire, the cause of fire and even
incendiary origin of the fire. The owner, the family of the
owner, person calling in the alarm, neighbors, witnesses, or
any person who might help in any way should be interviewed.
If an investigator ever needed to be a skilled interviewer,
it is in arson investigation cases. Most people just do not
like to talk about arson fire. In general, they must be
questioned as to the following.
a. His identity
b. His business in the arson of the fire.
c. What attracted his attention to it?
d. Time of observation and exact location of the blaze.
e. His position in relation to the fire at time of
observation.
f. Size of intensity, rapidity of spread, and direct
travel of flame.
g. Color of flame, and odor if he is in a position to
observe these.
h. Other pertinent information.
METHODS OF ESTABLISHING ARSON
The usual methods involve examination of the fire scene.

Although some of the most common methods used are burn
indicators, which are the effect on materials of heating or
partial burning and may be used to determine the point or
points of origin of a fire. Fire accelerates the development
of fire and to increase the amount of devastation. If either
multiple point of origin or traces of fire accelerants are
found arson is indicated.
Occasionally, detection of arson during a fire is done

through a team of arson investigators in the form of
surveillance of the fire scene: suspicious behavior of
spectators, an overzealous offer of assistance by a
spectator, or someone constantly driving over fire hoses are
grounds for suspecting arson. Behavior of owners, occupants,
and other persons present as to their actions, excitements,
dresses, and other pertinent information are observed, which
might be helpful later.
Observing people and vehicles as they approach and leave

the scene. In a U.S. forest fire scenerio, the detection of
arson is aided by the practice of U.S. Forest Service
firemen enroute to configurations to take notice of the
license numbers of vehicles departing from the scene,
possible incendiary fire. In at least one case, this
procedure has led to the arrest of an arson suspect.

Gasoline was, by far, the most frequently found fire
accelerant, possibly because it is readily available. Its
characteristic and familiar odor makes it easier to detect
than most other flammable liquids. To camouflaged the odor,
incendiaries ordinarily used ammonia which has a pungent
odor easily recognized by firemen. Ammonia is also used to
keep out firemen from the burning structure. Other
accelerants often used like kerosene, alcohol, firemen can
easily distinguish rubber. Films have pungent odors similar
to camphor.
The size of fire, rapidity of spread and direction from

the time of discovery to the arrival of the firemen may
indicate that certain flammable substance have been used to
accelerate spread of fire. Arsonist may also bore holes on
walls and floors as a means for the fire to spread more
rapidly.
Intensity of heat maybe an indication that flammable

liquids or compounds could have been used to spread the fire
more rapidly. The firemen may experience sometimes that when
a stream of water are directed on such fire, instead of
going out as might be ordinarily expected the fire will burn
with added intensity, and with a different color of flame
such as red, blue, yellow or orange.
The color of the smoke, location, and size are all-

valuables in determining the use of accelerant. Although,
some fires burns with little or no smoke, these are
exceptions. The observation must be made at the start of the
fire, once the fire as assumed a major proportion; the value
of the smoke is lost because the smoke will not indicate the
materials burning or used by the arsonist.
If white smoke appears before the water from the fire

hose comes in contact with the fire, it indicates humid
materials burning, such as hay, vegetables, phosphorus (with
garlic odor). Black smoke indicates lack of air, but if
accompanied by large flames it indicates petroleum and
rubber.
If biting smoke is encountered causing irritation of the

nose and throat, lacrimation, and coughings, presence of
chlorine is indicated. Reddish-brown smoke might indicate
nitrocellulose.
Arson is often used to conceal another crime. Documents

and records that found purposely exposed during a fire
should be given particular attention, including doors,
windows, and ventilators that are open and provide cross-
drafts. Locked and obstructed entrances or passageways to
impede the speedy transit of firemen and equipments.
GATHERING, PRESERVING, AND ANALYZING EVIDENCES
The arsonist expects the fire to destroy all of the

evidence, and sometimes it does destroy most of it. However,

the investigator who digs hard enough many times comes up
with evidence where seemingly none exist. The cause of the
fire should be investigated shortly after the fire is
extinguished, otherwise, very little can be done afterwards
be-map-up and salvage operation. This is a crucial stage in
the detection and investigation of arson because cases rely
on evidence that is recognized and preserved at this point.
Finding and Preserving Evidence
As in all other investigations, only one person should

pick up, mark and package all evidence, and special care
should be taken to maintain the chain of custody.
There are some special problems in arson investigation

due to the types of accelerants that may have been used.
Accelerants used often are those of petroleum products such
as gasoline, kerosene, mineral spirits, or anything
containing volatile flammable liquid. Hydrocarbons of these
products may be found under the debris of the fire, at or
near the point of the origin. These fluids, when originally
spread, flow outward and downward, hence evidence of these
may be found in cracks in the floor or in dirt under the
fire. Just because the fire damage is extensive or there is
no odor present does not mean these types of accelerants
were not used.
The crime lab in most cases would be needed to prove

which type of accelerant was used. Wood flooring and rugs
are the most common substrates, followed by furniture and
upholstery. These materials are where the crime lab
separates accelerant residues. Sections of the floors, the
debris or some dirt under the fire must be stored in glass
or metal containers and sealed, to be of value to the crime
lab. Fumed from the accelerants or hydrocarbons would escape
from plastic or open containers.
The predominant type of container used to preserve

physical evidence from arson. Scenes are the unused metal
paint can. These containers are vapor-tight and unbreakable.
Plastic bags, while convenient and inexpensive, are easily
punctured, are chemically attacked by some types of
evidence, and allow the loss of some volatile evidence by
diffusing through the bag.
Time Delay Devices
Delayed action is achieved in setting incendiary fires by

the used of certain mechanical, electrical or chemical
devices. They usually involve matches, candles, electric
heating elements, batteries and clock mechanisms coupled
with flammable liquids, or chemicals that will spontaneously
ignite after a short delay. If none of these devices are
found, the evidence, which should be the various containers
for them. The arsonist uses this delayed type of devices to
establish an alibi.

Condition of Doors, Windows, Furniture
In cases where a building has burned to the ground, the

hardware of doors and window remain. They will fall straight
down, unless moved by the water stream of the firemen. This
may tell whether a door or windows was opened or closed.
Metal parts of furniture may tell whether or not

furniture has been moved from the building before the fire.
Ashes ay give the crime lb something to work with. For
example, if extensive furniture has bee moved from the house
prior to the fire and inexpensive furniture move in, the
crime lab can tell from the ashes. Evidence of fraud fires
should be carefully examined. This is tremendous problem and
should remain uppermost in the mind of the investigator.
Burn Indicator
Burn indicators are the effects on materials of heating

or partial burning, which are used to indicate various
aspects of fire such as flammable liquids, and points of
origin. Interpretation of burn indicators is a principal
means of determining the cause of the fire. Although burn
indicators are widely used to establish the causes of fires,
they have received little scientific testing. Some of the
burn indicators used are the following:
Alligatoring effect: checking of charred wood, giving it
the appearance of the alligator skin. Large, rolling
blisters indicates rapid, intense heat, while small, flat
alligatoring indicates long, low heat.
Crazing of glass: formation of irregular cracks in glass
due to rapid, intense heat, while small, possible fire
accelerant.
Depth of char: depth of burning wood – used to determine
length of burn and thereby locate the point of origin of the
fire.
Line of demarcation: boundary between charred and
uncharred material.On floors or rugs, a puddle shaped line
of demarcation is believed to indicate a liquid fire
accelerant. In the cross section of wood, a sharp, distinct
line of demarcation indicates a rapid, intense fire.
Sagged furniture springs: because of the heat required
for furniture springs to collapse from their own weight
(1150F) and because of the insulating effect of the
upholstery, sagged springs are believed to be possible only
in either afire originating inside the cushions (as from a
cigarette) rolling between the cushions) or an extrnal fire
intensified by a fire accelerant.
Spalling: breaking off of pieces of the surface of
concrete, brick or cement due to intense heat. Brown stains
around the spall indicate the use of fire accelerant.
Freezing of leaves: drying of leaves in a forest fire
into their position at the time of the fire. Since the
leaves turn during the day. “Some persons regard this
evidence as unreliable because of insufficient clinical and

research conformation and the influence of the fire wind.”
One of the authority, P.L.Kirk, cautions that puddle-
shaped lines of demarcation may be due to many causes which
have nothing to do with flammable liquids. He also points
out that depths of char is strongly affected by factors
other than burning time (such as temperature and species of
wood) and that much greater care must be taken in its
interpretations than is frequently the case.
Olfactory Detection
Gasoline is a complex mixture of chemical compounds, the

proportion of which vary with the source of the crude oil
and the type of process used in its manufacture. The
sensitivity of the human nose to gasoline vapor appears to
be on the order of one part per ten million. So that, the
nose is not sensitive.
Another problem, called olfactory fatigue, is the
tendency of the nose to lose its sensitivity to an odor
after a prolonged or intense exposure to it. Further, the
odor of fire accelerants may be masked by other strong odor
such as that of burnt debris or ammonia. In fact, in one
case an arsonist attempted to camouflage the presence of
gasoline by mixing vanilla with it to mask the odor.
Finally, it may be inconvenient or impossible to search for
accelerant odor with nose along with certain types of
detector equipment.
Other Types of Accelerant

Explosive types of accelerant usually leave little or no
residue, but there maybesome types of containers or parts of
containers available; metal parts such as pieces of pipe,
wire, batteries, and parts of alarm clock. Evidence of
forced entry, evidence of arson to cover up other crimes and
evidence of footprints or tire tracks (outside) should be
carefully gathered and reserved. Do not take for granted
that fingerprints will be destroyed by the fire. Soot from
the fire maybe perfect preservatives of fingerprints.
The arsonist may use material on hand such as newspapers,
overstuffed furniture, or anything that burns easily. He may
rearrange anything available to provide a quick burning
situation. He may use some type of petroleum accelerant on
this material. If rearrange, fast-burning materials are use
without accelerants, a good photograph showing rearrangement
may be sufficient. If some accelerant of petroleum product
is used, it will be necessary to place some of this material
in glass or metal container and sealed for the crime lab to
examine.
TECHNICAL METHODS IN ARSON INVESTIGATION
The detection, recovery, and analysis of fire accelerants

are of major concern to arson investigators. The presence of
flammable liquids can be used to establish that arson was
committed and can sometimes be used to link a suspect of

fire. Although; objection is sometimes be raised that
identifiable amounts of liquid fire accelerants rarely
survive a fire so that any effort or fund expanded for their
detection would be largely wasted. While there is not
sufficient scientific investigation of this subject, the day
to day experience of arson investigation, is that accelerant
residue are often found. Furthermore, experiments have shown
that accelerants can survive fires.
The areas most likely to contain residues of liquid

fire accelerants are floors, carpets, and soil since, like
all liquids, they run to the lowest level. Also, these areas
are likely to have the lowest temperatures during the fire
and may have insufficient oxygen to support the complete
combustion of the accelerant. Porous or cracked floors may
allow accelerant to seep through the underlying earth.
Numerous instances have been recounted of the excellent
retention properties of soil for flammable liquids. Another
place where accelerants, and the equipments sensitivities,
limitations, advantages and disadvantages.
Chemical Color Test Detectors
Chemical color test maybe used to detect both liquid

accelerant residues and their vapors. Certain dyes can
spread in suspected areas and will indicate the presence of
hydrocarbons by turning red. This method is less sensitive
and specific to flammable liquids than other methods which
are available. Also the dye may interfere with subsequent
laboratory tests intended to identify the accelerant.
Hydrocarbon vapor scan be detected by pumping a suspected
sample through a glass container of reagent, which changes
color in the presence of hydrocarbons. The reported
sensitivity of this method is on the order of one part per
thousand. The detector will also react to hydrocarbons,
which are not fire accelerant.
Catalytic Combustion Detector
The most common type of flammable vapor detector used by

arson investigators operates on the catalytic combustion
principle and is popularly known as sniffer, combustible gas
indicator, explosimeter, or vapor detector. In operation,
vapor samples are pumped over a heated, platinum plated coil
of wire, which may cause any combustible gas present to
oxidize. The heat from the oxidation raises the electrical
resistance of the coil and his changes in resistance are
measured electronically. A sensitivity to hexane vapor of a
few parts per million can be achieved. Since oxygen is
required for the operation, the sensitivity is reduced in
oxygen-deficient areas but these are unlikely in arson
investigations. (Also, an internal source of oxygen could be
fitted to the detector if it were found to be required. The
other problem is the gradual loss of sensitivity when the
detector is exposed to gasoline containing lead. Lead
deposits form on the platinum catalyst and interfere with
its operation.

While the detector correctly indicate the presence of the

more volatile fire accelerants (gasoline, paint thinner), it
gave low readings for less volatile accelerants (fuel oil,
turpentine). This situation might cause an investigator to
overlook such an accelerant while searching a fire scene.
Flame Ionization Detector

In the flame ionization detector, the sample gas is mixed
with hydrogen and the mixture is burned. Ionized molecules
are produced in the flame proportion to the amount of
combustible organic gases in the sample. (Pure hydrogen,
air, and water vapor produce little ionization.) the degree
of ionization is then measured by using an electrometer to
determine the resulting increase in the electrical
conductivity to methane is about one part per ten million.
Gas Chromatograph
The portable gas chromatograph adapted for field use, is

sometimes called the arson chromatograph. In the gas
chromatograph, the sample is first separated into components
based on the speed with which the components travel though a
tube filled with a packing material. The amounts of each of
the separated components are then measured with either a
catalytic combustion of flame ionization detector. The
sensitivity rangers from a few hundredths of a part per
million to a few parts per million depending on the type of
detector used. The main advantage is a great enhancement in
specificity because of the preliminary separation process:
the distribution in the amounts of components with various
travel times tends to be unique characteristics of chemical
compounds. The principal disadvantages are the time required
for the analysis of each sample of about one-half hour,
which can be a disadvantage in some situations. In addition,
there is an initial setup time of about one hour. The
operation of the gas chromatograph is considerably more
complex and requires a certain amount of the technical
training.
Infrared Spectrophotometer
Infrared spectrophotometers can achieved very high

specificity to flammable liquids and high sensitivity of
about hundredths of part per million. In operation, infrared
light of varying wavelengths is directed through the sample
and the amount of light passing through it is plotted on a
pen recorder. The recording can then be compared with those
of known compounds determine the identity of the sample.
Since the chemical bonds in the compound determine the way
in which infrared radiation, these recording called
spectrograms are unique for different compounds.
However, evidence mixed with impurities must be purified

before it can be successfully identified. In particular,
since water vapor absorbs infrared light, it interferes with

the identification of flammable vapors. This is a
disadvantage in arson investigation, where water is commonly
present.
Ultraviolet Fluorescence
The operational procedure consists simply of

illuminating the darkened fire scene with ultraviolet lamp.
Certain substances, including constituents of gasoline and
its residue, absorbs the ultraviolet light and release the
energy as visible light. These substances appear to glow
against the darkened background. The color with which the
substances glow is affected by exposure to heat, and thus,
the method can be used not only to locate accelerant
residues but also to help locate the point of origin of the
fire. The only equipment required is an ultraviolet lamp and
portable power supply.
Recovery of Fire Accelerant Residue
Accelerant residues must first be separated from the

ashes, wood, carpeting, or other material in which they are
found before they can be analyzed. This extraction is
usually accomplished by one of three types. Of distillation:
simple, steam, or vacuum. Both steam and vacuum distillation
are capable of extracting 64% of any gasoline from debris.
Identification of Prime Suspect
The final basic line of inquiry is the identification of

the fire setters and his accomplices if any. The
identification is developed from clues, traces, testimony of
persons particularly eye witnesses, and expert testimony may
be of value.
Difficulties in Investigating Arson Cases
Many fires receives only a per functionary investigation,

while many others are not investigated at all. This is true
both in the case of the initial investigation of the cause
of the fire and in the case of the subsequent criminal
investigation when incendiarism is known or suspected. This
situation causes the number of fires classified as
incendiary or suspicious to significantly underestimate the
true level of arson and helps to cause the low arson arrest
and conviction. The reasons for the low rate of
investigation of fires fall mainly into two categories.
1. Physical nature of the fire scene. No

other type of crime scene except bombings is
characterized by as much destruction and disorder as
arson. Investigators must search through piles of
debris and rubbles, often on their hands and knees.
Ashes, soot, and char make fire scenes filthy and
malodorous. They can ruin clothes and cause personal
problems for investigators returning home from fire
scenes. An investigator’s wife may be able to adjust to

his late night calls, but may find the inevitable
filthy and foul-smelling clothes intolerable. For this
reasons or because he fins such conditions undignified,
an investigator’s may request transfer to other duties.
The fire scene search is further aggravated by

water remaining from the extinguishments. The scene may
be a quagmire, making the rubble wet and heavy to move
out the way. Plaster fallen from walls and ceilings
mixed with the water, forming a gray slush retarding
the investigator’s movements. The fire scene may be
dangerous to work in because of the imminent collapse
of upper parts of the structure. It may be exposed to
the elements, making work in foul weather difficult and
unpleasant.
In addition to the destruction of the fire, there

are further problems caused by firefighter mop-up
process and salvage operations immediately following
the fire. This involves finding and eliminating any
smoldering sports that might rekindle the fire. This
involves tearing open walls, ceilings, roofs, and other
partitions, and throwing objects like mattresses and
sofas out the building. The salvage process involves
removing any salvageable items, such as furnishings or
machinery, to a safe place and covering them from the
elements. The process hampers efforts to reconstruct
the fire scene and the sequence of events that led to
arson. The original positions of objects must, as a
result, usually be obtained through meticulous
interviews.
The sheer physical effort involved in the

investigation is usually much greater for arson than
for other crimes, and the number of man-hours required
is greater. Fire scene searches cannot be avoided,
particularly in view of the general lack of witnesses
in arson. The investigato0r must often put together a
complex chain of circumstantial evidence to establish
arson and implicate a suspect. Any physical evidence
may be destroyed by the fire or lost in the debris.
Securing the fire scene poses another real

problems, since the investigator in most cases, is late
in arriving. In general fireman do not recognized their
responsibility in arson investigation and concentrate
on suppressing the fire without regard to the
suspicious fire. In the fire is suspicious and should
be investigated.
The arson investigator must assume the

responsibility for educating the firemen as to their
responsibility in suspicious fires. The firemen are
usually in a position to make or break an arson case by
their action in taking fire alarm, arriving at the
scene, and suppressing the fire. The firemen must
understand how important their actions are to the

investigator and why their cooperation is needed.
The arson investigator could profitably use some

of his time teaching the firemen to recognize
suspicious fires. The same techniques can be taught the
firemen how to protect the fire scene and to see that
the investigator is notified immediately: Usually, the
sooner the investigator is notified and arrives at the
fire scene, the better he is in a position to
investigate. The good investigator should closely work
with firemen, encourage them to be a part of the
investigation, and keep them informed.
2. Administrative Problems
Historically, the attitude of police has often

been that arson is a fire problems and that
responsibility for arson lies completely within the
fire service. Arson, however, is a crime, and
firefighters are not trained to investigate criminal
matters. As discussed in the previous section, the
conditions typical of fire scenes make arson
investigation unpleasant and unrewarding. Neither the
police nor fire agencies are anxious to take over an
area with such a low success rate. Both want to improve
their statistics in order to enhance their image and
justify their budget. When budget cut occurs arson
units are often the first to go. The real winner in
this dispute is the arsonist.
Difficulties in Prosecuting Arson Cases
Legally, fires are assumed to be accidental in origin

until proven otherwise. The proof that the origin was
incendiary and that a crime occurred is called the corpus
delecti (body of the crime) of the arson case. Since arson
is committed surreptitiously, witnesses are rare. Arson must
therefore usually established using circumstantial evidence
including physical evidence, such as fire accelerant
residues or multiple points or origin of the fire, which s
difficult to find.
Once arson has been established, the prosecution centers

on implicating the defendant. Again witnesses are few
(unlike, say, robbery or assault), so a complex
circumstantial case must usually be constructed. Such a case
requires greater trial preparation and more experience on
the part of the fiscal: Further, the low success rate and
high work demands of arson cases make them most unattractive
to prosecutors, who demands of arson cases make them most
unattractive to prosecutors, who demands of arson cases make
them most unattractive to prosecutors, who are usually
overburdened with cases. One of the criteria for promotion
is the number of convictions returned. Finally, because of
the heavy reliance on physical evidence, the prosecutor may
feel uneasy with the large amount of expert scientific
testimony required.


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CDI 6 Nor-Alissa M.

LESSON 1 FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION

Fire is the manifestation of rapid chemical reaction

Fire is heat and light resulting from the rapid

THE START OF FIRE

All matters exist of one of the three states – solid,

However, when a solid or a liquid is heated, its

The start of burning is the start of a Chain Reaction

Obviously, three things are required for combustion or

Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 10

The Fire Triangle

Figure 1 will show that if any side of the fire

With the presence of the elements of fire, combustion

The combustion process is better represented by the fire

The Fire Tetrahedron

Fuel Chain Reaction

The fire tetrahedron is useful in illustrating and

Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 11

The basic difference between the fire triangle and the

The fire tetrahedron also explains the flaming mode of

A condensed phased combustion is called glowing

A. The Physical properties

1. Specific Gravity – the ratio of the weight of a

To burn a fuel (combustible material), its temperature

Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 12

 the fuel is heated until its temperature reaches its

B. The Chemical Properties

1. Endothermic Reactions – changes whereby energy

Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 13

ASSESSMENT NO. 1 SELF-EVALUATION

2. What is the essence of studying fire technology and

Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 14

LESSON 2 FIRE TECHNOLOGY

1. Familiarization of the types of flames

a. Based on Color and Completeness of

1. Luminous Flame – is orange-red, deposit soot

b. Based on Fuel and Air Mixture

1. Premixed Flame – is exemplified by a Bunsen-

1. Laminar Flame – when a particle follows a

As mentioned in part one, fire has been described as

Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 15

FUELS (Combustible Materials)– fuel is matter and

FUEL is also a material that provides useful energy.

Synthetic fuels can be made from fossil fuels, certain

Most fuels release energy by burning with oxygen in the

Classification of Combustible Materials

1. Class A Fuels – they are ordinary combustible

General Categories of Fuel

1. Solid Combustible Materials – includes organic and

Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 16

The Solid Fuels

Types of Flammable solids

a. Pyrolyzable solid fuels – include many of the ordinary

b. Non-pyrolyzable solid fuels – solid fuels that are

The following are group of solid fuels

1. Biomass – it is the name given to such replaceable

Factors affecting the combustibility of wood and wood-

a. Physical form – the smaller the piece of wood, the

Fire Technology and Arson Investigation (S.Y. 2020-2021) 17