The assessment of forest fire danger is a critical aspect of forest fire management. We will review the physical, mathematical and statistical aspects of models used for forest fire danger rating in Canada, including fuel moisture, fire occurrence and fire behaviour models and will examine how these models have been developed based on field and laboratory experimentation and statistical modelling techniques. Through lectures and assignments we will examine the assumptions underlying these models and their use, and develop an understanding of how to modify or develop new models to fit new forest types or management needs.