fire science

American  

[fahyuhr sahy-uhns] / ˈfaɪər ˈsaɪ əns /

noun

1. the study of fire, with specific disciplines that include the composition of fire, acceleration and suppression of fire, prevention of fire, control of wildfires, and fire-related consequences of climate change.

   She got her bachelor’s degree in fire science with a concentration in public relations.

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Etymology

Origin of fire science

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

The conditions in Plumas National Forest, “I’d call them very typical for at least Oregon, Washington and California,” said Scott Stephens, UC Berkeley professor of fire science and co-author on the study.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 21, 2025

Professor Rory Hadden, chair of fire science at the University of Edinburgh, agreed that most wildfires in Scotland were caused by human activity.

From BBC • Aug. 11, 2025

Glenn Corbett is an assistant professor of fire science and public administration at John Jay College at the City University of New York.

From Salon • Dec. 19, 2023

Three fire science experts who examined the photos for the AP noticed several items that could be possible ignition sources for the rekindled fire.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 26, 2023

Glenn Corbett, a fire science professor at John Jay College in New York City, said closed doors are vital to containing fire and smoke, especially in buildings that do not have automatic sprinkler systems.

From Fox News • Jan. 11, 2022