Fire |
Condition
Fire results from the combination of three elements : combustible, combustive and activation energy.
Combustive : it is the oxygen (present in the air). It activates and keeps the flame going.
Combustible : this is the material that feeds combustion. It may solid (wood...), liquid (gasoline...) or gaseous
( butane
).
Activation energy : It is the localised rise in temperature (flame, electricity, sparks, heat). |
Causes
Let us mention a few of the main causes :
Electric current (overloaded or faulty sockets...),
Flammable liquids or gases,
Heating appliances,
Natural (sun, lightning...) and human (act of negligence, malice
) causes. |
Fire prevention |
In most cases, a fire can be avoided, provided that one is organized and take the necessary prevention measures (e.g. : a fire detection and supression system).
Below are some simple measures for preventing both domestic and professional fires :
order and cleanliness (both at the workplace and at home).
do not place flammable materials (gas, liquid and solid) together and near a source of heat. Do not place flammable chemicals in electricity boards.
Preventing fire is avoiding the combination of combustive, combustible and activation energy.
Work station (welding, grinding
)
Before work, always assess the risk of fire and take all necessary precautions to avoid it.
Kitchen
Do not leave a saucepan or frying pan unattended on a fire. Abstain from cooking late at night because the risk of falling asleep is looming.
Candle and cigarette
Keep flammable substances away from a burning candle. Abstain from smoking while in bed, sitting on an armchair lest the cigarette might fall down.
Did you know that a cigarette butt can burn out during 3 to 4 hours before a real fire can break out ?
Have your electric boards, circuits or installations in your premises checked by an authorized body for any fault (short circuit, overload
) may cause a fire.
Avoid overloading adapters, fake electric installations, leaving open wires lying around. |
What has to be done when a fire has broken out ? |
Never underestimate a fire. Once it has broken out, action has to be taken swiftly and collectedly.
Request emergency aid and vacate the premises right away
Notify the Fire Department, (n°112 from a mobile telephone and n°18 from a wire telephone.)
Comply with evacuation instructions. These are generally posted up in some places (companies, restaurants, hotels, buildings
)
CAUTION !
Smoke is black and spreads rapidly.
Smoke and gases have an asphyxiating effect
Heat is lethal. Heat may go up to 1,200 °C .
You do not have time. During a fire, time works against you.
The 4 facts above are the most dangerous for man during a fire.
If you fight a fire
You can use the appropriate means that are readily available to you. Based on type of fire, these may be: water, sand, blanket, wet towel, fire extinguishers
CAUTION ! You must comply with the following safety instructions :
Stand between the flames and an exit in order not to get encircled by fire,
Stand with wind in your back,
If you are inside, stand with the draught,
Direct the jet at the flame base,
Start with the side nearest to the fire area and sweep over slowly to reach the entire burning surface. |