In recent years, the theoretical evaluation method of thermal safety based on thermal decomposition kinetics has attracted extensive attention, and has gradually developed into an important supplement to traditional experimental methods. In this paper, the research progress of thermal safety evaluation based on thermal decomposition kinetics is reviewed. Three methods for obtaining kinetic parameters are introduced, namely, simple linear fitting method, isoconversional method and model-based simulation method. The applicable conditions of these methods are discussed. The modeling process and characteristics of the model-based simulation method are analyzed. On this basis, combined with several important thermal safety indicators, the practical application of thermal safety evaluation of energetic materials and other dangerous substances based on thermal decomposition kinetics is introduced. At the end, some controversial issues are discussed, such as the method selection when solving the thermal decomposition parameters (isoconversional method or model-based simulation method); and the implementation of the experimental scheme for energetic materials with molten decomposition characteristics. It is proposed that more attention should be paid to the compatibility of sample status, experimental techniques, and evaluation goals.