FIRE CHEMISTRY
FFP 2111
COURSE DESCRIPTION
FFP 2111 Fire Chemistry (3) ( A.A.S. / A.S. ) This course is designed to provide the fire service professional with the basic principles of chemistry as they pertain the study materials which are hazardous to the environment because of their flammability, toxicity, reactivity; or pose a threat to living organisms as they are encountered during emergency situations. Emphasis is placed on identification and mitigation procedures. Offered as FFP 2010 prior to Fall 2004.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
The student, at the successful completion of this course, should be able to:
1. Identify the presence of chemicals in their various forms.
2. Recognize the hazards associated with the chemical(s) found.
3. Identify the hazards commonly found in manufacturing, commercial, residential, and public assembly
occupancies.
4. Recognize the hazards associated with transportation of hazardous materials.
5. Define the following terms and relate how each relates to emergency situations: (a) vapor pressure, (b) vapor density, (c) ignition temperature, (d) flash point, (e) flammable limits, (f) specific gravity, (g) boiling point, (h) reactivity, (i) alkalis, (j) acids, (k) oxidizers.
6. Explain the following as defined by an accepted authority: atom, molecule, ions, atomic and molecular
weights, chemical changes, chemical equilibrium, ph factor, polymerization, radioactivity.
7. Explain the properties of combustible and flammable liquids.
8. Define the significance of explosive limits.
9. Explain the properties and differences of liquefied natural gases and liquefied petroleum gases.
10. Explain the term BLEVE.
11. Identify and explain the properties of cryogenics.
12. Identify the methods of compressing and liquefying gases.
13. Identify the principles of chemical reactions, and stabilization.
14. Recognize and define the chemistry of some common elements.
15. Recognize and define corrosive materials.
16. Determine the water-reactive properties of common substances.
17. Recognize and explain the differences of organic and inorganic chemicals.
18. Utilize reference sources and databases to mitigate the effects of chemicals.
19. Develop action plans to evaluate data and response protocols.
20. Recognize appropriate levels of protective ensembles and breathing apparatus.
21. Determine effective protective procedures for incidents involving chemicals.
22. Prepare a written presentation establishing standard operating guidelines.
23. Pass a written test on all subject areas of the reference texts.
Date of Last Revision: 10/06/03