Understanding fire behavior is essential for safe and effective firefighting. Knowing how fire reacts to air, heat, and ventilation—especially in modern structures—is not just theory, it must be experienced.

That’s where dollhouse fire behavior training comes in.

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What Is Dollhouse Fire Behavior Training?

This training uses a scaled-down wooden model—often called a “dollhouse”—to simulate real-life fire dynamics. Developed and popularized by instructors like PJ Norwood, it offers a controlled, visual way to observe smoke movement, flashover, ventilation effects, and fire growth patterns.

By using basic fuels (dry straw, pine strips, and polystyrene), trainees can safely explore how fire behaves in enclosed spaces and how it responds to oxygen.

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Key Lessons from the Training

🔥 1. Ignition and Early Smoke Behavior

• Fire starts in the lower corner compartment with light-colored smoke.
• As oxygen decreases, smoke becomes darker and thicker.
• Controlling air = controlling fire behavior.

🌬️ 2. Ventilation and Smoke Flow

• Opening or closing compartments changes smoke pressure and flow.
• “Neutral plane” and bi-directional flow are clearly visible.
• Partial openings cause smoke to push out and air to draw in.

🚪 3. Reintroducing Air: Fire Re-Ignition

• A compartment can reignite when reopened, triggering flashover.
• Simply opening a door or window can change the outcome dramatically.
• Fire shows a “search” behavior as it seeks oxygen.

🏚️ 4. Roof Ventilation Simulation

• Cutting a hole in the roof accelerates smoke exit and increases fire intensity.
• Shows that uncoordinated ventilation can worsen conditions.

Training Focus	Real-World Benefit
Smoke color and flow	Heat level and fire location assessment
Neutral plane observation	Predict fire spread and room conditions
Flashover and backdraft differences	Improve team safety and tactics
Controlled ventilation effects	Learn timing and coordination for ventilation

Equipment and Safety Tips

• Use garden hose mist or portable extinguisher nearby
• Wet the outside of the model to prevent overburn
• Open/close compartments gradually and safely

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Why It Works: Learning with Your Eyes

The biggest strength of dollhouse training is that it turns invisible fire behavior into a visual, real-time lesson. You see the fire breathe, feel the heat’s effect on smoke, and understand the danger of poor ventilation—all before entering a real structure.

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Recommended For:

• New recruits and volunteer firefighters
• Mid-level firefighters training on ventilation tactics
• Officers and instructors practicing fireground coordination

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Final Thoughts

This is not just a model. It’s a powerful educational tool.
Dollhouse fire behavior training bridges the gap between textbook theory and real-world operations. It shows us that ventilation without coordination can kill, but with the right timing, it can save lives.

If your department hasn’t tried it yet—it’s time to light the match.

reference video

Reference page: “Key fire characteristics: combustion elements, smoke risks, toxic gases, and safe firefighting techniques.”

References　National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)