Whilst there will always be fires and accidents can happen, many can be prevented if the fire hazards are identified and reduced. Simple techniques for identifying hazards when cooking, dealing with flammable liquids, smoking and using electrical equipment can significantly reduce the chances of a fire occurring.
We may not think that an accident can happen to us, but everyone is at risk, especially in the home where over 85% of fire deaths occur. If you want to know more about the hazards in your home and workplace and how to reduce these, then this advice applies to most premises.
Cooking Hazards
Cooking is the most common cause of fires, so removing hazards in the kitchen is essential if you want to significantly reduce the chances of a fire.
Make sure that you always keep surfaces clean and tidy, and that all spills and messes are cleaned up to avoid accidents. Also, keep all flammable objects like clothes, towels and curtains about a metre away from the stove and flames to stop them from catching fire. Give electrical appliances like microwaves room to breathe, and unplug them when they are not being used.
But the most famed of all kitchen fires is the chip pan fire or frying pan. These are caused when fat or oil gets too hot and ignites automatically.
Although this can seem scary, as long as you do not leave pans unattended you can avoid hazards like this. If the pan does catch fire, then simply put a lid over the fire, turn the heat off and let it cool for an hour or two.
If you have a fire blanket, make sure you are aware of how it is used in advance, and use it carefully. A damp tea towel may burn through so be prepared to add another.
Never Ever:
- Put water on a chip pan fire – you must have seen a Fire Brigade demo of this which should frighten the life out of you
- Attempt to pick up the pan and put it outside or in the sink – you will drop it and you will be scarred for life
- Use a fire extinguisher – other than a Class F Wet Chemical extinguisher – to fight a chip pan fire
Heating And Electrical Equipment
Heating and electrical equipment are also potential fire hazards unless treated carefully. Make sure that any heaters you buy have automatic shutoff features, and that they are regular inspected and checked for problems.
Never put anything on top of heaters or block them as this can potentially cause fires.
With electrics, you need to make sure that all cords and wires are in good condition, and that you do not leave electrical appliances on for too long or when you go out in case they overheat and start an electrical fire.
Try to avoid overloading plug sockets by using extension cords or powering too many high-wattage appliances off one socket.
Smoking And Other Problems
Smoking is the top cause of home fire deaths in the United States, and if you do smoke it can be a problem.
No matter how obvious it seems, never smoke in bed or when you are extremely tired. Check rubbish bins and sofas before you sleep for cigarettes still burning. The same goes for items like candles – make sure they are all out before going to sleep.
It is a good idea to have a little water in the bottom of ashtrays to ensure all finished cigarette butts are completely extinguished and there is so chance of them burning slowly and causing a fire.
In terms of other fire hazards, make sure you do not keep any unnecessary items that could lead to fires, like large quantities of flammable liquid or old piles of magazines and newspapers.
If you identify any of these hazards in your home, then by following these suggestions you will reduce the chances of a fire occurring. Be safe and enjoy your home.
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