If a fire is spotted in the home or workplace, it is generally recommended to call the fire brigade and evacuate the building in question. However, if choosing to tackle a fire, it is important to be aware of the different types of fire and how best to extinguish them. Taking a couple of minutes to familiarise with fire safety and extinguishing procedures could save lives.
Using Water To Extinguish Fires
It is perfectly safe to use water to extinguish fires on solid materials such as wood, paper, plastic or carpet. Water should never be used on flammable liquids such as oil and fat or flammable gases such as propane or methane.
Extinguishing An Electric Fire
Electrical fires are primarily caused by overloaded circuits or broken wires. Wires that are removed from their rubber insulation should be replaced as soon as possible.
The first priority when extinguishing an electrical fire is to turn off the power if it is safe to do so. The best option for putting out electrical fires is via the use of a CO2 or Class C fire extinguisher. If this is not available then attempt to smother the fire with sand, baking soda or a fire blanket.
Do not in any circumstances attempt to extinguish the fire using water or a Class A fire extinguisher. Water conducts electricity and could spread the fire further or cause a serious electric shock.
Extinguishing A Chip Pan Fire
The misuse of traditional chip pans is the most common cause of accidental kitchen fires. They are largely caused by overfilling or overheating chip pans whilst cooking. Chip pans should not be more than a third full of oil and should never be left unattended. Make sure all food being added to the fryer is dry.
The best way to deal with a chip pan fire is by smothering it with the chip pan lid, a fire blanket or, failing that, a wet towel or cloth. Class F Fire Extinguishers can also be used on fires involving oil or fat.
Avoid attempting to put out chip pan fires with water as this will cause fireballs and spread the fire further.
Extinguishing Gas Fires
Gas fires are the most dangerous types of fire and must be left solely to the fire brigade to deal with.
Do not attempt to light any type of fire if you smell a gas leak from anywhere inside your house. The smallest spark could cause the gas to ignite and cause an explosion.
Evacuate the building immediately and phone the emergency services.
Click here for further information on preventing fires within the home
Join the Conversation