Observing Fire Safety Introduction to Health Science Mrs. J. Hanna, RN

Three Things to Start a Fire Oxygen-present in the air Fuel-any material that will burn Heat-sparks, matches, flames

Major Cause of Fires Carelessness With smoking and Matches

Other Causes of Fire Misuse of electricity (overloaded circuits, frayed electrical wires, and /or improperly grounded plugs. Defects in heating systems Spontaneous ignition Improper rubbish disposal Arson

Types of Fire Extinguishers Class A-wood, paper, plastic, cloth Class B-flammables-gas, oil, paint Class C-electrical-appliances, wiring Class ABC or combination- can be used on all types of fires.

Types of Contents Water-pressurized-used on Class A Carbon dioxide-CO2-smothering action and leaves a powdery, snow-like residue-used on Class B fires. Can be irritating to skin and eyes, also dangerous if inhaled.

Contents of Fire Extinguishers Dry chemical-smothers-contains potassium bicarbonate or potassium chloride-leaves mildly corrosive residue-used on Class C fires ABC fire extinguisher leaves a yellow powder which has a sticky residue. Can damage computers or other appliances and is irritating to skin and eyes. It contains a graphite-type chemical.

Contents Halon-gas that interferes with chemical reaction that occurs when fuels burn-used on Class C fires

Notes Fire extinguishers are labeled with diagram and/or letter showing types of fire for which they are effective. Diagonal lines through a diagram means DO NOT USE IT.

Notes Main Rule: REMAIN CALM. If your safety is endangered, EVACUATE and SOUND the alarm.

RACE R-Rescue anyone in immediate danger A-Activate alarm. C-Contain the fire. Close windows and doors! Shut off electrical equipment/O2. E-Extinguish the fire (if possible.)

PASS P- pull the pin on the fire extinguisher A- aim at the base of the fire S- squeeze the trigger on the extinguisher S- sweep from side to side.

Rules Follow fire emergency plans Exit doors Remain calm. PREVENTING FIRES is everyone’s job.

Preventing Fires Obey all “No smoking” signs. Extinguish all matches, cigarettes, and other flammable items completely. Dispose of waste materials in PROPER container!

Preventing fires Before using electrical equipment, check for damaged cords or improper grounding. Avoid overloading electrical outlets. Store flammable materials in PROPER, labeled containers. Spill a flammable liquid, wipe it up STAT!

Preventing Fires Do not clutter rooms, closets, doorways, or traffic areas. Do NOT block fire exits! When O2 is being used, post signs and Avoid use of flammable liquids, such as nail polish, alcohol, oils. Remove all smoking materials.