Fire Safety

Introduction

A fire can become life-threatening in just 2 minutes. A residence can be engulfed in flames in 5 minutes.

Fire is a chemical reaction involving rapid oxidation (burning) of fuel.

The following 3 elements must be present at the same time in order for a fire to start: oxygen, heat and fuel.
Hence, remove any one of the 3 components will extinguish a fire.

The purpose of the fire extinguishers is to prevent a small fire developing into a large one.

NOTE: It is important to verify if the fire extinguisher is in good working order periodically.

To use a fire extinguisher, you can follow the PASS method.

Pull pin at the top of the extinguisher, breaking the seal. When in place, the pin keeps the handle from being pressed and accidentally operating the extinguisher.
Immediately test the extinguisher. (Aiming away from the operator) This is to ensure the extinguisher works and also shows the operator how far the stream travels

Sweep the nozzle from side to side (NOT up and down) as you approach the fire, directing the extinguishing agent at the base of the flames.

A fire drill is a safety procedure that is conducted in order to prepare people for what to do in the event of a fire.

During a fire,

Remember, there is no safe place inside a burning building. The safest place is outside the building.
Drop down to the floor and crawl low, under any smoke to your exit. Heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling.
Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either is hot, or if there is smoke coming around the door, leave the door closed and use your second way out.
If you open a door, open it slowly. Be ready to shut it quickly if heavy smoke or fire is present.
Once evacuate to fire assembly point, never re-enter a burning building.