FIRES NEED 3 THINGS TO START Oxygen (Air) Fuel (any material that will burn) Heat (sparks, matches, flames)

Major Cause of Fires Carelessness with smoking materials Misuse of electricity (overloading a circuit or overuse of extension cords) Improper rubbish disposal Improper storage of flammables (such as gasoline) Arson

GENERAL FIRE SAFETY  Keep combustibles away from heat.  Prevent sparks in areas where oxygen is used.  Cap and store combustible liquids properly.

GENERAL FIRE SAFETY  Keep maintenance and storage areas clean and free of trash, sawdust, oily rags, etc.  Keep halls and stairways clear.  Be sure that EXIT signs are always lighted and that emergency lighting is in working order.  Never prop open or block emergency doors.

Types of Fires Class A Fire –Ordinary combustibles, such as trash, wood and paper Class B Fire –Flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, oil Class C Fire –Electrically energized fires

In the event of a fire, stay calm and RACE… R-rescue any patient in immediate danger A-alarm and notify other employees of the location and type of fire C-contain the fire by closing doors E-extinguish the fire

In the event of a fire, stay calm Remember…your primary responsibility is to your own safety!

TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS Class A : –Pressurized water –Wood, trash, linens Class B –or CO2 –Gas, grease, oil Class C –Dry chemical –Electrical, computers Class ABC –Dry chemical –All types

Using a portable fire extinguisher: PASS P-Pull the pin A-Aim low-at base S-Squeeze handle S-Sweep from side to side Stand 3-5 feet away from the fire If you think the fire is too big…it is!

Fire Safety Quiz 1.Three elements necessary to start a fire. 2.What 4 steps need to be taken in the event of a fire in a medical facility? 3.Name the 3 classes for extinguisher and an example of a material included class. 4.When using an extinguisher, what 4 steps must you remember to do?