The Producer's Story

How did NOVA's film crews get close-up footage of dangerously volatile, 100-foot-high crown fires in the far West? Here, a behind-the-scenes report from producer Judith Vecchione.

The World on Fire

Every year, wildfires rage across millions of acres on all continents save Antarctica. Using annotated satellite maps of Earth, view and review the 2000 fire season on six continents.

Outfitting Wildland Firefighters

In this interactive feature, take a closer look at two fully clad wildland firefighters and learn more about their specialized gear.

How Plants Use Fire

Some plants and animals have adapted to naturally occurring fire to such a degree that they can't live without it. In this article, fire historian Stephen Pyne investigates the wildlife-wildfire bond.

Glossary of Fire Terms

What's the difference between torching and candling? Blow-ups and flare-ups? Fire whirls and firestorms? Find out here.

Wildfire Simulator (Hot Science)

Use this simple fire-growth computer model, developed by NOVA Online, to see how conditions such as wind speed and direction can affect the spread of a wildland fire. Also, try your hand at using virtual firebreaks and backfires to control a wildfire.