I have create a series of fire effect tutorials for Photoshop, you should be able to use them for most fire types.

The first of the series is simple flame, these are calm controlled fire that are often seen in man made fire sources such as match/lighters or stove fire.

The second in the series is a larger type of fire, its the type of fire that can be seen before it gets out of controlled.

The third in the series is a wild fire effect often seen in forest fire or burning car with dark smoke.

The forth type is an explosion, its a smaller explosion, you probably wont see the shock wave in real life, but I added it anyway for the effects so it is up to you.