THE BATTLE AGAINST FIRE

THE BATTLE AGAINST FIRE
Authors: Roy Brown and W. Stuart Thomson
Publisher: Abelard-Schuman
Edition: First Edition, 1966
Pages: 120

The Battle Against Fire is a captivating journey through the centuries-long human struggle to understand, control, and combat fire. Written by Roy Brown and W. Stuart Thomson, this first edition published in 1966 by Abelard-Schuman delivers an insightful chronicle of the scientific and technological advancements that have shaped modern firefighting and fire safety systems.

Beginning with fire’s earliest role in human civilization, the authors explore both its destructive power and its necessity for survival. They chart humanity’s transition from fearing fire to harnessing it—and ultimately to battling its unintended consequences in urban, industrial, and natural settings. Drawing from both history and science, the book reveals how major events such as the Great Fire of London and the Chicago Fire changed public awareness and spurred innovations in firefighting.

Brown and Thomson delve into the development of fire brigades, the evolution of firefighting equipment, and the science behind fire behavior, detection, and suppression. The book also highlights the increasing importance of fire prevention in architecture, public policy, and industrial safety. With vivid storytelling and accessible explanations, it shows how fire safety has become an interdisciplinary effort, requiring the collaboration of scientists, engineers, architects, and emergency responders.

Richly illustrated and deeply informative, The Battle Against Fire is more than just a technical account—it is also a tribute to the bravery of firefighters and the resilience of communities who rebuild after devastating losses. A valuable resource for students, general readers, or anyone with an interest in fire science and emergency services, this book presents an inspiring narrative of one of humanity’s oldest and ongoing challenges.

• A historical and scientific account of humanity’s ongoing fight against fire.

• Authored by Roy Brown and W. Stuart Thomson.

• First Edition published in 1966 by Abelard-Schuman.

• Chronicles the evolution of firefighting—from ancient times to the modern era.

• Explores major historical fires and their impact on safety laws and firefighting techniques.

• Covers the development of fire brigades, tools, and preventive technologies.

• Discusses the role of fire in society, architecture, and urban planning.

• Presents fire as both a destructive force and a tool of civilization.

• Illustrated with diagrams and historical references for better understanding.

• An ideal reference for students, historians, science enthusiasts, and safety professionals.

• Category: Science – with strong relevance to fire safety, engineering, and history of technology.