First, we will look at how fires are caused and what they need. Knowing this helps with prevention. It is also important information for stopping a fire from spreading and continuing to burn.
In order for a fire to start and continue, four components must come together.
These are known as the “Fire Tetrahedron”.
The Fire Tetrahedron is a more up to date version of the previously used Fire Triangle.
Expand the four sections below to see the components that make up the Fire Tetrahedron:
If the supply of oxygen decreases in concentration, the combustion process slows. The air supply can be reduced to prevent a fire from spreading, for example, closing doors and windows. However, in most cases, there is usually plenty of air left when a fire goes out.
If you put a spoon over a lit candle, it will go out as it no longer has any oxygen. Never blow out a candle – this is dangerous as it could spread fire.
Heat is responsible for the ignition of a fire. If heat is removed by the application of a substance, for example water, the amount of heat available to the fire reaction is reduced.
Turning off the electricity in an electrical fire removes the ignition source.
Without fuel, a fire will go out. Fuel can be removed naturally, thereby decreasing the heat.
The is the Fire Tetrahedron.
The key to stopping fires is to prevent the chain reaction from happening.
The most important thing to know is that a fire cannot start or continue if one of the Fire Tetrahedron elements is missing.
Fires can have devastating effects. The can cause serious life changing injuries and death.
Most fires can be prevented by people being aware of how their own actions or neglect can cause a fire and how their actions can prevent a fire.
The DANGERS of fire are all around us.
Flip the cards below to see some of the common everyday items that present fire risks:
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