Fire Engineering and Science

Course Description

This course presents a complete foundation in the principles, equipment, and practical skills that drive modern fire engineering and operational fire science. It guides learners through the behaviour of combustion, the mechanisms of extinguishment, and the essential tools and techniques used by fire service professionals. Each unit blends scientific understanding with real world application, ensuring that students are fully prepared to evaluate fire conditions, select appropriate suppression strategies, and operate equipment safely and confidently.

The course is organized into focused units that explore the following themes:

Physics and Chemistry of Combustion
Students begin by examining the scientific forces that cause fire to start, grow, and spread. Concepts are explained with clear connections to operational decision making.
• Explanation of heat transfer, ignition, flame behaviour, and the fire tetrahedron
• Study of fuels, phases of combustion, and factors affecting fire development
• Understanding of how science supports tactical planning

Classification of Fire and Fire Extinguishing Media
Learners gain the ability to identify fire types and determine the correct suppression approach for each situation.
• Overview of standard fire classes and their unique hazards
• Study of extinguishing methods that interrupt heat, fuel, or chemical reactions
• Examination of media such as water, foam, dry chemicals, and gaseous agents

Portable Fire Extinguisher
This unit builds practical skill in the selection, operation, and maintenance of extinguishers.
• Identification of extinguisher types and rating systems
• Safe handling procedures and common application techniques
• Inspection practices that ensure readiness during emergencies

Pump Primers
Students explore the equipment that enables fire pumps to draw water effectively during operations.
• Study of primer types including mechanical, water ring, and vacuum systems
• Explanation of the priming process and troubleshooting common issues
• Importance of proper pump readiness in field operations

Hose and Hose Fittings
A detailed understanding of hose equipment supports effective water delivery and scene control.
• Types, construction, and performance characteristics of various hoses
• Couplings, branches, nozzles, adapters, and their operational roles
• Procedures for deployment, care, testing, and storage

Fire Protective Clothing and Breathing Apparatus
This unit stresses the importance of firefighter safety through protective gear and respiratory equipment.
• Components and functions of structural and specialized protective clothing
• Operation and limitations of breathing apparatus systems
• Procedures for inspection, cleaning, donning, and emergency use

Small Gears and Hand Tools
Learners gain familiarity with essential tools that support rescue, ventilation, and suppression tasks.
• Description of forcible entry tools, cutting tools, and striking tools
• Proper handling techniques that reduce risk and increase efficiency
• Maintenance practices that extend equipment life and reliability

Ropes and Knots
The course concludes with the fundamental skills needed for rescue and support operations.
• Types of ropes used in fire service, along with their characteristics
• Essential knots applied in hoisting, securing, and emergency scenarios
• Guidelines for rope care, inspection, and safe operational use

This course offers a detailed pathway for learners who seek both scientific understanding and practical competence in fire engineering, preparing them for real world challenges with confidence and technical skill.