What is Fire

Fire is very useful to us - but if treated carelessly, it can be VERY dangerous. Fire is the result of a reaction caused by a Fuel being Heated to it's flashpoint in the presence of Oxygen. Fuel, Heat and Oxygen make the Fire Triangle.

Where did Fire come from?

Fire has existed on Earth for billions of years. In fact, it's existed off Earth for even longer - Stars (including the Sun) themselves are burning balls of gas. Long before people, dinosaurs or any living creatures, fire has existed - caused by such things as lava flows and lightning strikes. When the earth was first formed, the rocks and mountains were so hot they were molten. Fires burned all over the Earth for many years. Gradually, as the earth cooled and the atmosphere formed, the rocks cooled and solidified. But, molten rock still exists under the surface (the crust) of the earth and sometimes erupts through volcanoes as lava. Lava is incredibly hot and will burn anything that stands in its way. Trees will burst into flames before the lava even touches them - all because of the heat produced by the flowing lava. As well as lava, lightning can also create fire. Lightning is a big charge of electricity that can reach from clouds to the ground or to other clouds. It can start fires and it is strong enough to hurt or kill people. Lightning also helps nature by putting nitrogen in the ground for plants to use. There are thousands of lightning strikes every day. Scientists think that lightning hits somewhere on the earth about 100 times every second. More people are killed by lightning than by any other kind of storm, including hurricanes and tornadoes. In the whole world, lightning kills more than 1,000 people in a year, maybe many more. A lot more people are hurt by lightning than are killed by it and many of those who live are hurt very badly.

How did we get fire?

Early cavemen were probably very scared of fire when they first saw it. But, they eventually learnt that it could help them by providing warmth and scaring off dangerous animals. Cavemen would have first obtained fire from natural sources such as a tree that had been struck by lightning. They would carry the branch back to their cave and use it to start a fire, that they would need to keep burning for as long as possible. They would also use fire to help them hunt animals, but it was a long time afterwards that anyone had the bright idea of cooking their food!

Can you think of other uses for fire that cave people might have had?

For example, in Greek Myth, Prometheus (who had created mankind out of clay) stole fire from the gods and gave it to men so that they might cook and keep warm.

Fire Triangle
Fire is a chemical reaction which needs three things to be present so it can happen: OXYGEN + HEAT + FUEL = FIRE If one of these is not present, the fire cannot start. If one of these is taken from a fire it will go out. But how does this all work? Here comes the science bit - concentrate.

Oxygen
We all breathe Oxygen (O) everyday - in fact, without it we would suffocate. But did you know that fire breathes Oxygen too? And, like us, without Oxygen a fire will also suffocate. When Oxygen in the air combines with flammable vapours given off by Fuels they create a form of heat at a molecular level. Then, a source of ignition (a match or spark, say) can cause it to combust. Without enough Oxygen, ignition cannot happen. In the opposite way, if there is too much Oxygen then the vapours won't be concentrated enough to ignite. The ratio of vapour to Oxygen is known as the 'explosive' or 'flammable' limit and is different for each gas or vapour.

Heat
Combustion occurs when flammable vapours mix with air (Oxygen) and are ignited by a spark or flame. Solids give off flammable vapours by being heated. Certain solids such as paper or flour appear to ignite almost instantly. This is because they give off vapours and reach a flammable temperature almost immediately. In fact, fine dusts dispersed in the air can explode because they give off vapours and ignite so quickly it appear to happen instantly. Other solids like timber take longer to ignite because they are more dense and so don't give off flammable vapours so easily.

 Liquids are a bit different to solids. They are a lot more runny for a start! But, where solids need to be heated to give off flammable vapours, some liquids give off vapours even in cold weather. The name for the temperature at which vapour from a liquid can be ignited is known as its 'flashpoint'. The flashpoint of petrol is 43C below zero. Meaning that even on the coldest day you can possibly think of, petrol can still ignite very easily.

Fuel
So, in our fire triangle we've got Oxygen and Heat, but we also need something that will burn - this is our Fuel. Fuels can take almost any form: Solids like wood, fabric, rubber and plastic. Liquids such as petrol, oil, cooking oil or even nail varnish remover. Gases like propane, butane and 'natural' gas. Different fuels burn at different rates and with different intensities. Some types of fuel, under certain conditions, can burn at over 1000C! That's hot enough to melt Aluminium! By contrast, the temperature of the surface of the Sun reaches around 6000C!

Class A Fires: How to Fight Them

What Are Ordinary Combustibles? Fires designated under class A are started when organic solid materials are heated up to the point of ignition. As long as fuel, heat, oxygen, and an extended chemical reaction is present (these elements combined are referred to as the fire tetrahedron), these types of fire will continue to burn. Typical fuels include: Firewood including kindling, logs and synthetic firewood products Paper Cloth Products derived from oil, such as plastic, vinyl and rubber Wood in any form furniture, framing, flooring, etc. In most cases, class A fires are lit in a controlled environment, such as in a wood stove or a campfire pit. They are usually not hazardous, since physical barriers are set and safety measures are taken to contain the flames. However, without proper precaution, these fires can spread quickly and present a serious danger.

Fighting Class A Fires

In order to fight or contain a fire that is burning ordinary combustibles, one of the essential components must be removed. Heat can be eliminated by dousing the flames with water, or the supply of oxygen can be prevented by smothering the fire with foam from a fire extinguisher. In some cases, such as forest fires, the fuel is often physically removed in order to stop the fire from spreading. Some chemical fire extinguishers contain ammonium phosphate, which break down the chemical reaction necessary for this type of fire to burn.

Firefighting Equipment
Since this type of fire is common, firefighters usually carry the equipment needed to effectively battle the flames. Using hoses hooked to a substantial water supply is a typical method of attack, while foam and special chemicals can also be used to eliminate the oxygen or chemical reaction in the area. Residential, industrial and commercial buildings should be equipped with proper fire extinguishers rated to fight class A fires. Safety standards also state that a source of running water (i.e. a hose or tap) must be within a certain distance of any backyard fire pits or recreational fire locations.

Class B Fires: How to Fight Them

What Are Combustible Gases and Liquids?The term combustible means to burn or ignite easily; the opposite is incombustible or noncombustible, which refers to material that does not burn. Combustible liquids and gases are the fuel that determine the class B designation and include the following: Gasoline and diesel Ethanol and methanol Isopropanol Acetone Acetylene Methane Butane Propane

 Class B fires have the same basic elements as their class A counterparts, that is, in order to burn there must be fuel, oxygen, heat, and a prolonged chemical reaction, termed the fire tetrahedron, as a group. This type of fire can be contained and often burns out quickly if the fuel source is cut off, as in a BBQ grill. However, when most of the elements are present yet dormant, once the final part of the tetrahedron is added, the flames can be incredibly fast and destructive.

Fighting Class B Fires

Due to the characteristics of the fuel involved in class B fires, it is important not to use water to extinguish the flames. In most cases, a spray of water would not reduce the heat, but would actually serve to spread the fuel farther, causing more damage. Smothering the flames and reducing the oxygen supply is the best method of combat against this type of fire, and so foam is a commonly used weapon against class B conditions. In the case of a kitchen stovetop fire, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or potassium carbonate are effective ways to smother the flames. It is smart to keep these ingredients close at hand.

Firefighting Equipment
To fight class B fires, firefighters must have a dry chemical flame retardant extinguisher in order to break up or stop the chemical reaction that propagates the flames. CO2, which is commonly available in extinguishers, is another effective weapon against this designation of fire. Although Halon has been used in the past to fight fires burning combustible liquids and gas, it has recently been discontinued due to environmental concerns. Experts do recommend a chemical called FM-200 for use as a halogenated flame suppressant, although many firefighting units will initially opt for the other available choices.

Electrical Class C Fires: How to Fight Them

What happens when electrical equipment is energized? Generally it is not dangerous to energize electrical components, gadgets, devices and equipment. They do not present a hazard unless they are handled incorrectly or have the potential to alter into something that presents a danger. When a fire starts from a short circuit or another type of electrical problem, and the source of energy is still live, the situation is highly dangerous and a class C fire can typically occur. Note that this type of fire is designated as class E in the Australian standards.

Some examples of potential sources of class C fires include

Overloaded electrical outlets Incorrectly wired plugs, outlets and switches Short-circuits If the flames have been designated as class C, the electrical supply needs to be identified and cut off. Electricity, when flowing freely, can serve as a constant source of ignition, allowing the combustibles to continue burning. All of the other elements of the fire tetrahedron are also present oxygen, chemical reaction and fuel. In the case of class C, the electricity provides the ignition or spark.

Fighting Class C Fires

The most important thing to remember is that a class C fire cannot be fought with water; you must use nonconductive substances. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, and those loaded with a dry chemical like PKP, are effective. Conductive substances such as water or foam can put the fire fighter at risk. When the source of electricity has not been cut off and water is sprayed into the flames, it can cause those electrical charges to spread and potentially create electrocution. If the electricity finds a path from the flames, through the water, to the fire fighters body, and into the ground, serious injury usually occurs; in fact, that kind of charge can be fatal.

Firefighting Equipment
The first step in fighting class C fires is to cut off the source of power, basically transforming the flames into a standard class A fire. Standard fire extinguishing methods can then be used to douse the flames. Most often firefighters wear footwear with rubber soles (approved footwear often has the Omega symbol). Such boots cut off the path of electricity, protecting the wearer from electrocution even if conductive materials are in the air, such as water or foam.

Class D Fires: How to Fight Them

Fire classes or designations are used to educate the public on identifying the different types of fires, and the proper fire fighting methods to be used. Class D fires are those that involve flammable metals, a fuel that presents particular dangers and flames that can quickly spread to other combustible materials in the area. This class of fire is less common than class A and B. The flames must be attacked in a certain way to avoid rapid spreading, intense heat, and excessive damage.

Flammable Metals
Not all metals are flammable. Some of the combustible metals are: magnesium, titanium, uranium, potassium, calcium, sodium, and lithium. The fuel that ignites class D fires is usually in the form of metal fines - tiny, thin pieces of metal, often shavings or metal dust left over from machining, that can spark a fire. Large pieces of combustible metals do not typically pose a risk of class D fires, since they easily disperse heat and are not subject to the conditions required for ignition. Laboratories and industrial facilities must enforce precaution and prevent conditions that may spark fires of this class. They must also ensure that the appropriate equipment and fire extinguishers are available should a dangerous situation occur.

Fighting Class D Fires

Similar to class C flames, water cannot be used on fires that burn metal. Spraying water on a class D fire will actually serve to energize the flames, potentially spreading the fire and creating additional heat and damage. The most effective way to fight class D fires is with dry powder extinguishing agents because they absorb heat and smother the flames, cutting off oxygen. By removing these two essential elements of the fire tetrahedron, the fire will be put out safely and rapidly.

Firefighting Equipment
Fire extinguishers containing dry powder substances should be on hand wherever combustible metals are present. These extinguishers are not to be confused with those using dry chemical agents. Extinguishers containing dry chemical agents can actually aggravate a class D fire. Common dry powder substances that effectively douse metal fires include graphite in powder form and sodium chloride in granular form. Look for equipment that specify these substances on the label. Training should be provided to those who have to use them.

Kitchen Class K Fires: How to Fight Them

In order to effectively fight a fire you need to know how it was started and what is making it burn. Often the fuel is important and dictates how the flames should be fought. Class K fires burn a specific type of fuel, namely cooking fat and oils, and can spread quickly, causing damage and potential injury. Class K flames are technically a subclass of class B flames, since it involves flammable liquid. However, because of some unique characteristics related to this type of fire, it was designated separately and requires a distinct battling method.

What Types of Cooking Substances Are Dangerous?

Heat is important when cooking, and oils and fats are often used to create that heat as they can be brought to a high temperature quickly. These highly flammable substances are used to fry and saut foods, and when they catch fire, they must be brought under control immediately. Some examples of cooking oils and fats include: Vegetable oils like canola, corn, and safflower Olive oil Butter Margarine Lard Bacon grease Class K fires are most often caused by cooking oils and fat that burst into flame on the stovetop, in the oven or on the grill. There is also a risk of causing such a fire when these substances are overheated in the microw

Fighting Class K Fires

Since this class of fire burns hotter than typical class B fires, the extinguishing methods used for B flames will not work on K flames. Some of the fire extinguishers rated for use with this type of cooking fire have a hood, which serves to cut off the oxygen and smother the flames. Splashes of extremely hot cooking oil or fat can cause serious burns, even life-threatening injuries. Anyone attempting to put out the class K flames on their own should be well aware of the dangers. A firefighter must approach such a fire fully protected.

Most common types of fire extinguishers

Water extinguishers or APW extinguishers (airpressurized water) are suitable for class A fires only. Never use a water extinguisher on grease fires, electrical fires or class D fires - the flames will spread and make the fire bigger! Water extinguishers are filled with water and are typically pressurized with air. Again - water extinguishers can be very dangerous in the wrong type of situation. Only fight the fire if you're certain it contains ordinary combustible materials only

 Dry chemical extinguishers come in a variety of types and are suitable for a combination of class A, B and C fires. These are filled with foam or powder and pressurized with nitrogen. BC - This is the regular type of dry chemical extinguisher. It is filled with sodium bicarbonate or potassium bicarbonate. The BC variety leaves a mildly corrosive residue which must be cleaned immediately to prevent any damage to materials. ABC - This is the multipurpose dry chemical extinguisher. The ABC type is filled with monoammonium phosphate, a yellow powder that leaves a sticky residue that may be damaging to electrical appliances such as a computer Dry chemical extinguishers have an advantage over CO2 extinguishers since they leave a non-flammable substance on the extinguished material, reducing the likelihood of re-ignition.

 Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extinguishers are used for class B and C fires. CO2 extinguishers contain carbon dioxide, a non-flammable gas, and are highly pressurized. The pressure is so great that it is not uncommon for bits of dry ice to shoot out the nozzle. They don't work very well on class A fires because they may not be able to displace enough oxygen to put the fire out, causing it to re-ignite. CO2 extinguishers have an advantage over dry chemical extinguishers since they don't leave a harmful residue - a good choice for an electrical fire on a computer or other favorite electronic device such as a stereo or TV.

kitchen fire safety, causes, safety must-haves, and fire prevention tips
One third of all house fires start in the kitchen and are caused by someone leaving cooking unattended or submitting to a distraction while cooking. Appliances used for food preparation have the potential to cause a fire, whether they are electric or gas operated. For example, electrical wires can fray, gas leaks can occur, and inappropriate containers in the microwave can ignite. Knowledge of kitchen fire safety is crucial. This page explains why cooking is the number one cause of home fires. It is important to review the basics of fire prevention now and then. If your household consists of more than one member, it is a good idea to gather everyone together on a regular basis to summarize the homes fire safety plans, and be sure to include two points of exit from the house. Although children are taught an escape procedure to follow if a fire occurs in their school, they should also know what to do in the event of a fire in their home.

The Two Basic Must-Haves

Integral to kitchen fire safety is having one or more smoke detectors in the house they can save lives. Install a detector on each floor of the house or apartment, and one in the basement. They should be located close to sleeping areas and near the kitchen so that a cooking fire can be detected in its earliest stage. Fire officials have expressed mixed feelings about battery-operated alarms versus electrical alarms. If the batteries in your alarm have expired, your alarm will not go off; if there is a power failure in your home, your alarm will not function. Always make sure the batteries are working, and never ignore an alarm. A functional fire extinguisher in your home is of the utmost importance. It is the ideal tool to put out a fire. Be aware of the operating instructions on the label so you will not be caught having to read them when the kitchen is ablaze.

Tips on Kitchen Fire Safety

Wear appropriate clothing, and avoid the long, flowing sleeves and open, loose-fitting shirts that can easily come in contact with hot burners. Wear your long hair up and do not leave any strands hanging. Never take your eyes off hot oil because it can ignite in an instant. If it catches fire, immediately place a cover on the pan. Always unplug electrical cords from all ancillary appliances. A plug can ignite even though the equipment is turned off. Any power surge or unforeseen problem with electricity can cause a fire. Do not use electrical appliances near water and keep cords away from all heat sources. Turn pot handles inward on the hot stove so as to avoid bumping into them accidentally and spilling their contents. Do not place potholders, boxes, towels, cutting boards, or plastic utensils and containers near cooking areas. Keep the kitchen work area clean, free from grease and burnt food. If you have a self-cleaning oven, remove large debris before turning it on. Keep a box of baking soda on the kitchen counter while cooking as it can quickly put out a small kitchen fire if it is caught at its onset. Make sure all appliances are in good working condition. At the first sign of a problem, have it fixed or get rid of it.