FUNDAMENTAL fire is a system of smart devices that live within a building and are constantly measuring carbon monoxide levels. In the case of a fire emergency, the devices communicate with each other to provide evacuees with up-to-date information about the situation. When the system detects a fire, it lights up and sends out an alert to evacuees, letting them know there's a fire in the building. A carbon monoxide sensor measures the CO levels in its immediate environment and based on these readings, it glows red or yellow. FUNDAMENTAL fire utilises light to provide more information to the evacuees about their surrounding environment; allowing for more informed decision making. Its glow has a breathing effect that provides a sense of calmness amongst the chaos.

The primary threats to life during a fire are normally considered to be heat, oxygen deprivation, and carbon monoxide. But, CO poses a greater risk than oxygen deprivation or heat. According to the CDC, there are at least 430 deaths and 50,000 ER visits due to accidental CO poisoning. Carbon monoxide is dangerous because it has no smell, no colour, and no taste. Unlike smoke that travels up, carbon monoxide blends with the air. In large quantities, it can kill very quickly.

FUNDAMENTAL fire is a thesis project and according to the project description on the James Dyson Award, "only a small step towards the development of this product."