What is a fire's "flame front"?

The term "flame front" refers specifically to the leading edge of a fire where combustion and flames are actively present. This is the area where the fire is most dynamic and intense, as it represents the point where the fire is advancing and consuming fuel. Understanding the flame front is crucial for firefighters as it helps in assessing the immediate threat level and planning effective attack strategies.

When firefighters know where the flame front is, they can better gauge the fire’s behavior, including its rate of spread, direction, and intensity, which informs critical decisions such as evacuation orders and resource allocation. Thus, recognizing the characteristics and location of the flame front is vital for firefighting operations and safety.