FIRE SAFETY Unit 2, Activity 2

The 3 components needed to start a fire are: Oxygen Heat Fuel Fire extinguishers remove one or more of these components in order to put out a fire.

The Main Causes of Fires: Smoking/Matches Misuse of Electricity Defects in Heating Systems Spontaneous Ignition Improper Trash Disposal Arson Prevention of Fatal Fires: Fire Extinguishers Smoke Detectors Sprinkler Systems

The RACE Acronym R: Rescue A: Activate the alarm C: Confine the fire Move all patients to safe area. A: Activate the alarm Notice the location and type of fire. C: Confine the fire Close windows/doors and shut off electrical equipment. E: Extinguish the fire Always remain calm and be aware of: Your facility’s fire plan. Where the extinguishers are. The evacuation plan for your area.

Types of Fires Class A: Wood, paper, cloth, trash Class B: Flammable liquids, oil, gas, grease Class C: Electrical, energized electrical equipment Class D: Combustible metals

All Purpose Water: Used on CLASS A fires Pressurized water Pressure Gauge present Carbon Dioxide: Used on CLASS B & CLASS C fires Hard, plastic nozzle No pressure gauge Multi-Purpose Dry Chemical: Used on CLASS A, CLASS B, & CLASS C fires Fine powder under pressure Pressure gauge present

The PASS Method: Pull the pin Aim at the base of a fire This allows you to squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguisher. Aim at the base of a fire The extinguisher agent will pass through the flames. Squeeze the handle This will release the pressurized extinguishing agent. Sweep side to side Cover the entire area that is on fire. Continue until fire is extinguished. Watch the area to ensure there is no relighting.

When NOT to Fight a Fire Never fight a fire if any of the following apply: You don’t have the proper extinguisher or equipment. Fire has spread beyond the point of origin. Your instincts tell you to GET OUT.

Proceed to the nearest exit in an orderly fashion. Assemble at least 100 feet from the building. Provide emergency crews with information about the reason for evacuation. Never re-enter a building until instructed to do so by the police department, fire department or Environmental Health and Safety staff.

In event of fire: Pull the nearest fire alarm. Immediately exit the building. If you hear an alarm, DO NOT assume it is a drill.