Fire Behavior and Service Terminology Flashcards

What term describes the minimum temperature at which a liquid produces enough vapor to form an ignitable mixture near its surface?

Answer: Flash point

Flash point is the lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off sufficient vapor to form an ignitable mixture with air near the surface.

Which phenomenon occurs when a fire in a compartment suddenly and simultaneously ignites all exposed combustible surfaces?

Answer: Flashover

Flashover is the near-simultaneous ignition of all combustible materials in an enclosed area when they reach their ignition temperature.

In fire service terminology, what does the acronym 'BLEVE' stand for?

Answer: Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion

BLEVE stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion, which occurs when a pressurized container holding liquid fails catastrophically.

What is the term for the layer of hot gases and smoke that accumulates at the ceiling level of a burning room?

Answer: Smoke layer

The smoke layer or hot gas layer forms at ceiling level as buoyant combustion products rise and collect, creating a stratified zone.

Which class of fire involves energized electrical equipment?

Answer: Class C

Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment, and water-based extinguishers should not be used due to electrocution risk.

What fire behavior term describes the visible flames rolling along the ceiling ahead of the main fire front?

Answer: Rollover

Rollover, also called flameover, occurs when unburned gases ignite and flames roll along the ceiling ahead of the main fire body.

What is the term for the rapid, explosive burning of accumulated hot gases when oxygen is suddenly introduced into an oxygen-depleted burning compartment?

Answer: Backdraft

Backdraft is a dangerous explosion caused by the sudden introduction of air into a superheated, oxygen-deficient compartment filled with combustible gases.