Fire ......

The earliest use people made of fire was to keep warm. As civilizations advanced, people learned to use fire in many other ways. People learned to use fire to cook food, to shape weapons and tools, to change clay into pottery, and to furnish light. But early peoples had extremely slow and unsatisfactory ways of kindling fires. Today, we have not only improved the methods of kindling fires, but we also use fire in many more ways. Fire furnishes the energy to drive machines, and keeps industries running. It supplies the power to drive trains, ships, and planes; and it generates electricity. Fire is also used to remove and destroy waste materials. In addition, fire is used in separating most metals from their ores, as well as in forging and shaping metals into useful things.

Controlled fire is useful. But fire can also be destructive. Uncontrolled fire kills thousands of people and destroys Crores of rupees worth of property each year. Fires burned down large parts of London in 1666, Chicago in 1871, and Tokyo in 1923. Fires also destroy large areas of trees and brush every year.

What is Fire ?

Fire is the heat and light that comes from burning substances. In 1777, Antoine Lavoisier, a French chemist, proved that burning is the result of the rapid union of oxygen with other substances As a substance burns, heat and light are produced. Burning is also called combustion. Often oxygen unites with other substances at such a slow rate that little heat and no light are given off. When this happens, we call the process oxidation, rather than burning or combustion. Oxidation takes place whenever oxygen unites with other substances either rapidly or slowly. For example, when oxygen unites with gasoline, the action takes place rapidly and heat and light are given off. This process may be described by any of the three words, burning, combustion, or oxidation. When oxygen unites with iron and causes it to rust, burning, or combustion, does not take place, but oxidation does.

Kinds of Fire ......

All substances do not burn in the same manner. Charcoal, for example, gives off heat with a faint glow. But other substances, such as coal, gas, magnesium, oil, and wood, give off heat with a flame. The color of the flame depends chiefly on the kind of material being burned and on the temperature.

Substances may burn in different ways, but they all require oxygen to burn. Sometimes old rags soaked with oil or paint are thrown aside and forgotten. Oxygen from the air may slowly unite with the oil in the rags. At first, there will not be a fire. But as oxidation gradually takes place, enough heat accumulates to set the rags on fire. This type of burning, called spontaneous combustion, causes many fires.

Very rapid burning may cause explosions like those produced by gunpowder and dynamite. Here, oxidation takes place so rapidly that great volumes of gases are produced. These require many hundreds of times the space that was formerly occupied by the gunpowder or dynamite before it was oxidized. These gases expand so rapidly and violently that they produce an explosion.

How Fire is Produced ......

Three conditions must exist before a fire can be made. There must be a fuel or a substance that will burn. The fuel must be heated to its ignition temperature. This is the lowest temperature at which combustion can begin and continue. Finally, there must be plenty of oxygen, which usually comes from the surrounding air.

Fuels are of three classes, solids, liquids, and gases. Coal and wood are examples of solids. Oil and gasoline are liquid fuels. Natural gas and hydrogen are gaseous fuels.

The burning of a solid fuel often depends on the form of the fuel. The ignition temperatures of fuels differ. For a solid or liquid fuel to ignite, some of the fuel must first be heated to the temperature at which it vaporizes (turns to a gas). Solids generally have higher ignition temperatures than liquids because they vaporize at higher temperatures. For example, the ignition temperatures of most woods and plastics range from about 500 to 900 °F (260 to 480 °C). A liquid fuel such as gasoline can ignite at a temperature as low as -36 °F (-38 °C).

Electrical fire is another danger. When an electric current passes through a conductor, resistance causes the conductor to become hot. Sometimes the heat is desirable. For example, the wires in a toaster heat up to brown bread. But overheating in electrical cords or in household wiring can cause a fire. Electrical fires destroy many homes every year. To avoid fires, do not plug too many devices into the same outlet, and never use electric devices with worn or frayed cords.

In addition, every fuel has two ignition temperatures. At one temperature, combustion can occur with the help of an outside energy source, such as a match. At another, higher temperature, combustion can occur spontaneously-that is, without outside help.

Fire precautions in Industry

Fire accidents are increasing in the industries. Such fires not only result in huge loss of lives and property but also disrupt production in the Industry.
This leaflet gives you advice on how to prevent fire in Industry.

Common Causes of Industrial Fires

• • Leaks and spillage of flammable/combustible material
• Electrical short circuiting/overloading
• Over heated bare surfaces/heaters/electric lamps
• Welding/cutting/soldering and other hot work
• Equipment failure
• Smoking in prohibited areas
• Chemical reaction/ runway reaction
• Frictional heat/spark
• Spontaneous combustion
• Static sparks/combustion sparks
• Naked lives
• Molten substances

Basic Preventive Measures

• Ensure high house keeping standard
• Cover trash containers tightly and empty them regularly
• Segregate flammable material from source of ignition
• Promptly eliminate oil/gas leaks and clean spillage of Flammable material
• Strictly adhere to work permit instructions for welding, Cutting and other hot work in areas where flammable are present.
• Store in compatible chemicals separately
• Where flammables are stored and used ensure adequate ventilation prohibits smoking, and use flame proof electric equipments
• Keep fuses and control boxes clean and closed
• Avoid multi socket connections
• Electrical repair should be carried out by qualified personnel
• Don't use damage cords and avoid temporary connections
• Lubricate, maintain and align all machines/equipments to prevent generation of heat.

Electrical Fire Precautions ......

Electricity is a major cause of Fire accidents. About 60% fires are of electric origin on account of electric short circuit, over heating, overloading, use of non-standard appliances, illegal tapping of electric wires, improper electrical wiring, carelessness and ignorance etc. It can lead to serious fire and fatal accidents, if proper fire precautions are not followed. Such fire incidents can be minimized, if adequate fire precautions are observed.

This leaflet will brief about the main areas of electrical hazard in your home and explains how you can stop fire starting.

Plugs and Flexes

• Some electrical appliances are designed to be left "ON" all the time. Check the manufacturer's instructions or if you are unsure, with the shop where you bought it. All other electrical appliances should be switched off and unplugged when not in use. Remove plugs carefully, don't remove them by pulling the flex.

• Use a three-pin plug which conforms to the Indian Standard and carries the ISI Marks.

• Overloading the socket by using several adaptors into the one socket can cause it to overheat and catch fire. Use a good quality adaptor and ensure it has the correct fuse.

Wiring A Plug

Learn the wiring colours and make sure you follow the instructions as given by the manufactures when fitting a plug.

Fuse / MCB

Always use the correct fuse / MCB for the equipments you are using and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Cooking Gadgets

Always make sure that saucepans are in a safe position. Flexes from electrical equipment, such as kettles and toasters, should be kept well away from the open fire and tea towels should never be dried over the gadgets.
Never leave a saucepan unattended with the heat turned on and be especially careful when using chip pans with oil or fat.
Make sure that ovens are not left on after use.

Warning

• Look out for warning signs of dangerous wiring
• Hot plugs and sockets
• Fuses that blow for no obvious reason
• Light flickering
• Brown scorch marks on sockets and plugs
• You should ask your electrician to check your wiring thoroughly if you see any of the danger signs.

Electric Blankets

Many fires and deaths are due to blankets being left accidentally switched on. As with all electrical equipment, it is important that you follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Check the instructions to see if you should switch off your blanket when you get into bed.
Under blankets should always be tied to the bed and be switched off before you get into bed.
All electric blankets should be kept dry and flat and should be serviced every two to three years. The shop where you bought it can tell you about servicing arrangements.

Heaters

Make sure you don't sit too close to the heater to keep warm. You could easily set light to your clothes or your chair, particularly if you fall asleep.
Heaters should always stand in a safe place where they cannot be knocked over and where they cannot be tripped over. They should be kept well away from furniture and soft furnishings, such as curtains and cushions. Do not position heaters where objects may fall onto them. Portable heaters should never be placed close to beds or used to dry clothes.
As with open fires, make sure that all heaters are correctly guarded. If you have young children at home, make sure you use an all enclosed guard with your heater as well.

Do's

• Use ISI certified appliances
• Use good quality fuses of correct rating, miniature circuit breakers and earth leakage circuit breakers
• Use one socket for one appliance
• Switch off the electric supply of fire affected areas
• Fuses and switches should be mounted metallic cubicles for greater safety against fire
• Replace broken plugs and switches
• Keep the electrical wire away from hot and wet surfaces.
• Switch off appliances after use and remove the plug from the socket.
• Switch off the "Main" switch when leaving home for a long duration.

Don'ts

• Don't use substandard fixtures, appliances
• Never have temporary or naked joints on wiring
• Don't lay wires under carpet, mats or doorways. They get crushed, resulting in short circuiting
• Don't allow appliances cords to dangle
• Don't place bare wire ends in a socket.


Survival Guide - In case of fire

Whar is fire ?
Fire is a chemical reaction in which heat, light and smoke evolve. To generate fire, heat, fuel and oxygen is essentially required in balance ratio. Shortage of any one restrict occurrence of fire.

Fire grows fast :

It is now established that a small flame can get completely out of control in seconds and turn into a major fire. It can fill up a home with black thick smoke very quickly. In minutes a home can be engulfed in flames. There is very short time to "ESCAPE". "Each second count in Escape".

Fire is "HOT" & "DARK" :

Fire generates heat that can kill. Temperature in a room varies from 100 degree at floor level to 600 degree at eye level. Inhaling super hot air will scorch your lungs. Heat can melt clothes to your skin. In just 5 minutes a room can get so hot that everything in it ignites at once. Fire brings darkness even it starts bright. It produces black thick smoke which reduces visibility.

Escape from heat!

Escape before darkness!

Fire is Deadly :
Fire produces heat, smoke and toxic gases. Smoke and toxic gases travel faster than heat hence they kill more people than flames do. Breathing even small amount of smoke and toxic gases can make you drowsy, disoriented and short of breath. The odorless, colorless fumes can lull you into a deep sleep before the flames reach your door.

Fire do happen :

Fire occurs frequently in Home, Industries, Office, etc. PREVENT FIRES. You should make sure that you and others know

• What to do if fire does break out?
• What would you do if you or any member discovers a fire?
• How would you and others escape?

"Safety Tips for Survival'

What to do:
In the event of a fire, always, remember that time is precious and every second counts. Follow the following tips:-

• Stay calm, don't panic and don't run.
• Raise alarm and alert everyone in your premises.
• Escape first and then call for help.
• Use nearest available exit routes.
• While leaving the premises, close all doors and windows behind you if possible but must ensure that anybody is left behind and you are safe.
• Use only escapes routes because they are built for the purpose.
• Use Staircases. "Don't use Lifts'.
• If you come to a closed door, use the back of your hand to feel the top of the door, the doorknob and the cracks between the door and door • frame to make sure that fire is not on the other side. If it feels hot, use your secondary escape route. Even if the door feels cool, open it carefully. Brace your shoulder against the door and open it slowly. If heat and smoke come in, slam the door and make sure it is surely closed, then use your alternate escape route.
• If you are trapped in smoke logged area, lay down and keep your nose close to floor and crawl towards an exit point.
• If you become trapped in your room closes the door and blocks any gaps which might let smoke or fumes through. Shout from the window to attract the attention of rescue team as well as others.

What not to do :

• Never stand up in a fire, always crawl low under the smoke and try to keep your mouth covered. Never return to a burning building for any reason; it may cost your life.
• Never go back into a burning building for any reason.
• Teach children not to hide from firefighters. If someone is missing, tell the firefighters. They are equipped to perform rescues safely.
• Don't secure open fire/smoke check door open as they limit the spread of fire smoke when in closed position.
• Don't be tempted to clutter the stairs, corridors and lobbies as they are your escape routes.
• Never use the lift. It you have to leave the building use the staircases.
• Do not stop to collect belongings.
• Don't shout or run. This tends to cause panic to others.

Plan your Escape of Route

In case of 'FIRE' in your home, would you know what to do?

This leaflet explains How to make a safe exit from your home.

"FIRE PREVETION IS BETTER THAN FIGHTING". Fighting fire is a specialized job and best left to the professional fire fighters.

Make your escape plan and get out alive. Talk every body in your home and make an escape plan today.

Once out, stay out!
Never go back into the Building
until the fire fighters say it is safe!

• Draw a map of your home. Show every room door, and window and the location of all fire safety arrangements
• Mark an easy way out of each room. Then find a second way out.
• Help the grown-ups pick a meeting place outside in front of your home. That's where everyone goes when they escape a fire.
• Learn the emergency Fire Service number 101 department. Call once you get outside.

Advance Plan

Make sure that you have "Safe Escape Plan" in case of Fire involving, everyone in your home, especially children, the elderly and disabled.

• By following the advice in this leaflet and planning your escape route together, you can save lives of yours, family members, relatives, and community members.
• Make sure every one knows where to find door and window keys.
• The best escape route is your normal way in and out of your home so keep it clear.
• Think of difficulties you may have getting out, for example in the middle of the night.
• Choose a second escape route, in case the first one is blocked.
• If you can't escape, you will need to find a room to wait in until the Fire and Rescue Service arrive. Choose a safe room, ideally one with a phone, and a window that opens.

In Case of Fire

Keep calm.
Act quickly.
Tell everyone in your home.
"Don't delay - get everyone out".

• Don't waste time investigating or rescuing valuables
• Before you open a door check it with the back of your hand. If its warm, don't open it - fire is on the other side. Remember to shut doors behind you.

In case Escape Route is Bloked

• Get everyone into one room, with a window that opens, and shut the door.
• Put cushions and bedding around the bottom of the door to block out smoke
• Open the window and call for help

IF YOU CAN'T GET OUT, FIND A SAFE PLACE TO WAIT

Get out of a Window

• If you're on the ground or first floor, you may be able to escape through a window. If you are higher up, only consider this if you are in immediate danger.

• If you need to break a window, use a heavy object to break the glass in the bottom corner. Then knock out the glass. Be careful of jagged edges, make them safe by laying a towel or blanket over them

• Break your fall with cushions and bedding. Remember, don't jump - lower yourself before dropping

IF THERE 'S SMOKE KEEP LOW TO THE GROUND WHERE THE AIR IS CLEANER.

If your Clothes Catch Fire

• Don't run around, you will fan the flames and make them burn faster.
• Lie down and roll around. It makes it harder for the fire to spread and smothers the flames
• Smother the flames with a heavy material, like a coat, blanket or a fire blanket

STOP DROP ROLL

Stay Out

Don't go back in for anything, even if there's someone left inside. Wait for the Fire and Rescue Service and give them as much information as possible.

If there is a Fire

GET OUT
STAY OUT
AND CALL 101

YOUR EMERGENCY CALL

• Once you've escaped, call 101. These calls are free.
• You can also call the local fire stations number - It may take longer. Speak slowly and clearly.
• Give the whole address. Explain if anyone is trapped and what room they are in.

DRAW A PLAN AND CREATE A CHECKLIST

Going out of your own home sounds easy, but everything looks very different when it's full of smoke. So practice your plan.

HOME FIRE DRILLS CAN BE FUN!

• Start the drill by pushing the button on a smoke alarm and yelling: "Fire!" "Everybody out!"
• Follow your escape plan and leave the building quickly.
• Pretend some way out are blocked by flame or smoke. That's when you might use your second way out of a room.
• Go directly to your meeting place

ESCAPE TIPS

• If you see smoke as you escape try another escape route.
• If you have to escape through smoke, crawl low to your exit. Keep your head one to two feet ( 30 to 60 centimeters ) above the floor. That's where the air will be cleanest.
• Test door knobs and the space between the door and its frame with the back of your hand before opening doors. If the door is warm, try another escape route. If its cool, open it slowly. Be ready to slam the door shut if smoke pours through.
• Never go back into the building-for any reason-until it's safe. If someone is trapped inside, tell the fire fighters.

FIT A SMOKE ALARM

The best way for you to protect yourself and your home is to buy a smoke alarm. Make sure you test the battery every week. If you need help or advice on which is the most suitable smoke alarm for you or where to install it, contact your local Fire and Rescue Service (Fire Station). They will be happy to give you advice. Smoke alarms save lives Fit on every floor of your home and test the batteries regularly.

REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE

• Last thing at night - You are far more likely to be killed or injured in a fire during the night. Get used to checking your home; before you go to bed.
• Turn off and unplug all electrical appliances unless they are designed to be left on - like your freezer or VCR for example
• Check the cooker is turned off
• Don't leave the washing machine on
• Turn heaters off and put up fire guards
• Put out candles and cigarettes properly
• Close inside doors.

Fire Safety advice for disabled peopl

Fire safety arrangements and pre-planning can save thousand lives. If a fire occurs in your home, your chances of survival will depend on how quickly and safely you are able to get out.

This booklet gives you advice on how to prevent fire, and how to protect yourself in the event of a fire.

SMOKE DETECTOR FOR EARLY ALERT

• By giving a advance alert call, a smoke alarm can give you those precious few minutes of warning which would help you and your family to get out safely.
• Smoke alarms are available in market and are simple to fit. Choose an alarm which meets Indian Standards.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to fit and position the alarm.

SMOKE ALARMS FOR HEARING IMPAIRMENT PEOPLE

For people who would not be able to hear a conventional smoke alarm there are special devices available which make use of a vibrating pad or flashing light instead of the auditory signal. The vibrating pad alarms are particularly useful for deaf blind people.

ADVANCE PLAN - ESCAPE ROUTE

If a fire occurs in your home you may have to get out in dark and difficult conditions. Escaping from a fire will be a lot easier if you have already planned your escape route and know where to go:

• Make sure that your planned escape route is free of any obstructions and that there are no loose floor coverings that could trip you.
• If you have serious mobility difficulties you may wish to consider having your bedroom on the ground floor. If this is practical and as near as possible to an exit.
• If you would need assistance to make your escape, it is vital that you have some means of summoning help by your bed, i.e. a buzzer, intercom or telephone. There are also systems available which will automatically dial out on your telephone line to summon help or send a signal to a manned control room.

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE

• If possible close the door of the room where the fire is and close all doors behind you as you leave. This will help delay the spread of fire and smoke
• Before opening a closed door use the back of your hand to touch it. Don't open it if it feels warm - the fire will be on the other side
• Get everyone out as quickly as possible. Don't try to pick up valuables or possessions. Make your way out as safely as you can and try not to panic. It will help if you plan your escape route now rather than waiting until there is a fire
• Telephone the fire brigade on 999 from a neighbour's house or a telephone box. Clearly state the address of the fire.
• Never go back into the house until a fire officer has told you it is safe to do so.

IF YOU ARE CUT OFF BY FIRE

• Try to remain calm.
• If you are unable to use the door because of flames or smoke, close the door and use towels or sheets to block any gaps. This will help stop smoke spreading into the room.
• Try to make your way to the window. If the room becomes smoky, crawl along the floor where it's easier to breathe because smoke rises.
• Open the window and try to attract the attention of others who can alert the fire brigade. Wait for the fire brigade to arrive.
• The fire brigade should arrive in a matter of minutes. If you are in immediate danger and your room is not too high from the ground, drop cushions or bedding to the ground below to break your fall from the window. If you can, get out feet first and lower yourself to the full length of your arms before dropping.

HOW TO PREVENT FIRES

• Unplug all electrical appliances not designed to stay on.
• Make sure no cigarettes are still burning
• Before emptying ashtrays make sure that the contents are cold.
• Put a guard around open fires.
• Switch off portable heaters.
• Close the doors of unoccupied rooms.