Chemistry student helps explain science behind fighting fires

22nd September 2014
Josh Scalf explores the chemistry behind fire. Photo courtesy of the Courier-Journal.

Josh Scalf explores the chemistry behind fire. Photo courtesy of the Courier-Journal.

IU Southeast chemistry student, and 10-year veteran of the Lafayette Township Fire Protection District in Floyds Knobs, Josh Scalf, is using his chemistry background to hep other firefighters understand the chemistry of fire.

Scalf, with the help of Visiting Professor of Chemistry, Dr. Jim Williams, recently published the first in a series of articles  that he hopes will help his colleagues do their jobs more safely and efficiently.

The goal is not to overwhelm fellow firefighters, but to introduce complex concepts in an easy-to-understand manner. Knowing what causes a particular color or amount of smoke, for example, can help firefighters better respond to each scene to which they are called.

Read the Courier-Journal article by clicking here. 

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