Basic Reference Sources in Fire Science

The last 15 years have seen the rapid growth of fire science education and training in the United States. This growth was noted by the Advisory Committee on Fire Training and Education (see Education below). Currently, the Federal Government and a majority of states maintain fire academies for the training of fire personnel. The 1983 Peterson's Guide to Two and Four Year Colleges lists over 300 entries under the headings fire science and fire protection management. In addition, a number of industries and professions have a direct interest in the literature of fire science, including insurance, architecture, construction, building maintenance, forestry, and criminal justice. This review shall concentrate on materials that should be in the reference section of any educational institution offering courses in fire science. We have not included materials that are considered general reference sources for the study of public administration, which include much material on that aspect of fire service, such as the Municipal Yearbook or Pay Rates in the Public Service.