• Objectives: At the end of this lesson you shall be able to • state the effects of a fire break out. • state the causes for fire in a workshop • state the general precautionary measures to be taken for prevention of fire. • state the types of fire and different extinguishing agent

What is Fire?

Fire is a rapid chemical reaction that releases heat and light, typically accompanied by flames. It occurs when a combustible material combines with oxygen in the presence of heat, resulting in combustion. The process involves the rapid oxidation of fuel, generating flames and producing various byproducts such as smoke, gases, and ash.

Fires require three essential components to ignite and sustain:

1. Fuel: Combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, plastics, gases, or liquids serve as fuel for the fire. 2. Oxygen: Air provides the necessary oxygen for combustion to occur. It combines with the fuel during the burning process. 3. Heat: Heat is the energy source that initiates the combustion process. It raises the temperature of the fuel until it reaches its ignition point, at which point combustion begins. Fires can vary in intensity and size depending on the type and amount of fuel involved, as well as environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind. They can spread rapidly if not controlled, posing a significant threat to property, life, and the environment. Understanding the science of fire and practicing fire safety measures are essential for preventing fires and minimizing their destructive impact.

Extinguishing of Fire: Extinguishing a fire involves stopping or suppressing the combustion process to prevent further spread and damage. There are several methods used to extinguish fires, depending on the type of fire and available resources. Here are some common methods:

1. Cooling: Removing heat from the fire can help extinguish it. Water is often used for cooling, as it absorbs heat and reduces the temperature of the burning material. Firefighters use water hoses or fire extinguishers to apply water to the flames.

2. Smothering: Smothering involves covering the fire with a non-combustible material to deprive it of oxygen. This can be achieved by using fire blankets, sand, or chemical extinguishing agents like dry chemical powder or foam.

3. Chemical Reaction: Some fire extinguishing agents chemically interrupt the combustion process. For example, dry chemical extinguishers contain powders that interfere with the chemical reaction of the fire. Other agents, like halon or carbon dioxide (CO2), displace oxygen and suppress combustion.

4. Fuel Removal: Removing the fuel source can extinguish the fire. For example, shutting off the fuel supply to a gas fire or removing combustible materials from the fire’s path can stop it from spreading.

5. Combination Methods: Often, multiple methods are used in combination to effectively extinguish fires. For instance, firefighters may use water to cool the flames while simultaneously applying foam to smother the fire.

6. Firefighting Equipment: Firefighters use specialized equipment such as fire hoses, fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and firefighting foam to extinguish fires safely and efficiently. It’s essential to match the extinguishing method to the type of fire and to consider factors such as the availability of resources, safety considerations, and potential environmental impact. Additionally, proper training in fire safety and the correct use of firefighting equipment are crucial for effectively extinguishing fires and minimizing risks.

Preventing of Fire: Preventing fires is crucial for ensuring safety and minimizing the risk of property damage, injuries, and loss of life. Here are some key measures to prevent fires:

1. Fire Safety Education: Promote fire safety awareness and provide education and training to individuals on fire prevention measures, proper use of fire extinguishers, and evacuation procedures.

2. Smoke Alarms: Install smoke alarms in every room of your home, including hallways and bedrooms. Regularly test smoke alarms and batteries as needed. Smoke alarms provide early warning of a fire, allowing occupants to evacuate quickly.

3. Electrical Safety: Avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords. Inspect electrical cords and appliances for damage and replace them if necessary. Use surge protectors and ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to prevent electrical fires.

4. Heating Safety: Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials such as curtains, furniture, and bedding. Never leave heaters unattended or operating overnight. Ensure proper ventilation when using fuel-burning appliances.

5. Smoking Safety: Use deep, sturdy ashtrays to dispose of cigarette butts. Never smoke in bed or when drowsy. Ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished before discarding them. Consider quitting smoking altogether to reduce fire risks.

6. Fireplace Safety: Have chimneys and fireplaces inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional. Never leave fires unattended, and ensure embers are completely extinguished before leaving the area.

7. Flammable Materials: Store flammable liquids such as gasoline, propane, and paint in properly ventilated areas away from heat sources. Use caution when handling and storing flammable materials, and follow manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.

8. Fire Safety Equipment: Install fire extinguishers in key locations throughout your home or workplace. Ensure fire extinguishers are properly maintained and employees are trained in their use. Consider installing fire suppression systems in high-risk areas.

9. Emergency Preparedness: Develop and practice a fire escape plan with your family or coworkers. Conduct fire drills regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency. By implementing these fire prevention measures and fostering a culture of fire safety awareness, individuals and organizations can significantly reduce the risk of fires and protect lives and property. Fuel    →    Extingquishing: Most effective ie. cooling with water. Jets of water should be sprayed on the base of the fire and then gradually upwards.

Extinguishing fires:Extinguishing fires refers to the process of putting out fires to prevent them from spreading and causing further damage. It involves various techniques and methods depending on the type and size of the fire, as well as the resources available. Some common methods of extinguishing fires include:

1. Water: Water is one of the most commonly used agents for extinguishing fires. It works by cooling the burning material and reducing the temperature below the ignition point.2. Fire extinguishers: Fire extinguishers are portable devices that contain specific extinguishing agents suitable for different types of fires, such as water, foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO2), or halon. They made to extinguish small fires quickly and effectively. 3. Fire suppression systems: These are automatic systems installed in buildings, vehicles, or other structures that can detect and suppress fires without human intervention. Examples include sprinkler systems, foam suppression systems, and gaseous suppression systems. 4. Fire blankets: Fire blankets are made of fire-resistant materials and can be used to smother small fires by cutting off the oxygen supply. 5. Sand or soil: Sand or soil can be utilized to cover fires including combustible fluids or electrical equipments where water may not be powerful or safe to utilize. 6. Firefighting foam: Foam is used to suppress fires involving flammable liquids by forming a barrier between the fuel and the air, preventing ignition. 7. Carbon dioxide (CO2): CO2 extinguishers are effective for extinguishing fires involving electrical equipment or flammable liquids by displacing oxygen and suffocating the fire. 8. Specialized techniques: In some cases, specialized techniques such as controlled burning, back burning, or the use of firebreaks may be employed to contain or extinguish wildfires in outdoor environments.

Overall, the choice of extinguishing method depends on factors such as the type of fire, the available resources, and safety considerations. It’s important to use the appropriate method and equipment to effectively and safely extinguish fires. Additionally, proper training in fire safety and firefighting techniques is essential for individuals responsible for extinguishing fires.

Fires are classified into four types in terms of the nature of fuel.Various types of fire must be managed in various ways with various extinguishing agents. An extinguishing agent is the material or substance utilized to extinguish the fire, and is for the most part (however not consistently) contained in a fire douser with a delivery system for showering into the fire.

Knowing the right kind of agent for extinguishing is significant a specific kind of fire; utilizing an off-base agent can make things worse.There is no characterization for ‘electrical flames’ accordingly, since these are just flames in materials where electricity exist.

Fuel    → Extingquishing: Should be smothered. The aim is to cover the entire surface of the burning liquid. This has the effect of cutting off the supply of oxygen to the fire.
Water should never be used on burning liquids. Foam, dry powder or CO2 may be used on this type of fire.

Fuel    → Extingquishing: Extreme caution is necessary in dealing with liquefied gases. There is a risk of explosion and sudden outbreak of fire in the entire vicinity. If an appliance fed from a cylinder catches fire – shut off the supply of gas. The safest course is to raise an alarm and leave the fire to be dealt with by trained personnel. Dry powder extinguishers are used on this type of fire. Special powders have now been developed which are capable of controlling and/or extinguishing this type of fire.

Fuel    → Extingquishing: The standard range of fire extinguishing agents is inadequate or dangerous when dealing with metal fires. Fire on electrical equipment. Halon, Carbon dioxide, dry powder and vapourising liquid (CTC) extinguishers can be used to deal with fires in electrical equipment. Foam or liquid (eg. water) extinguishers must not be used on electrical equipment under any circumstances.

Electrical safety tips:

Objectives: At the end of this lesson you shall be able to • rescue a person who is in contact with a live wire • treat a person for electric shock/injury.

An electric shock is a sudden and involuntary jolt of electricity that passes through the body when a person comes into contact with an electrical energy source. This contact can occur through direct contact with a live wire, an electrical appliance, or any object or surface that has become electrified due to faulty wiring or electrical malfunction. Electric shocks can range in severity from mild tingling sensations to potentially life-threatening injuries, depending on factors such as the voltage and current of the electrical source, the duration of contact, and the pathway the electricity takes through the body. Common symptoms of an electric shock include pain, muscle contractions, burns, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness. Electric shocks can cause serious injuries, including cardiac arrest, burns, neurological damage, and even death, making it essential to practice electrical safety and respond promptly and appropriately to electrical accidents.

Electrical safety is pivotal to prevent accidents, injuries, and fires. Here are some important electrical safety tips to follow:

1. Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect electrical cords, outlets, and appliances for signs of wear and tear such as fraying, cracks, or exposed wires. Replace damaged cords or appliances immediately.

2. Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): Install GFCIs in areas where water is present, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor outlets. GFCIs can detect ground faults and quickly shut off power to prevent electrical shocks.

3. Outlet Safety: Avoid overloading outlets by using power strips with built-in overload protection. Do not plug too many appliances into one outlet, and never use damaged outlets.

4. Appliance Safety: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and maintenance of appliances. Unplug appliances when not in use and avoid operating them near water unless they are specifically designed for such use.

5. Extension Cord Safety: Use extension cords only when necessary and make sure they are rated for the intended use. Do not run extension cords under rugs or furniture, and never use them if they are damaged or overheating.

6. Child Safety: Keep electrical cords and devices out of reach of children, and use outlet covers or tamper-resistant receptacles to prevent young children from inserting objects into outlets.

7. Water and Electricity: Keep electrical appliances away from water, and never touch electrical switches or outlets with wet hands or while standing in water.

8. Light Bulb Safety: Use light bulbs with the correct wattage for fixtures, and avoid placing flammable materials near hot bulbs. Allow bulbs to cool before handling them, and never touch them with bare hands while they are still hot.

9. Outdoor Electrical Safety: Use outdoor-rated extension cords and outlets for outdoor use, and protect them from moisture and damage. Do not operate electrical equipment outdoors during inclement weather.

10. Professional Inspection: Schedule regular inspections by a qualified electrician to check the electrical system in your home or workplace for any potential hazards or code violations.

Following these electrical safety tips can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your property. Always prioritize safety when dealing with electricity, and never hesitate to seek professional help if you are unsure about any electrical issue.

Electric shock safety practices and first aid are crucial for dealing with electrical accidents. Here are some guidelines:

1. Prevention:
– Always assume that electrical equipment is live.
– Insulated tools to be used and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with electricity.
– Ensure that circuits are properly grounded and that equipment is properly maintained.
– Never overload outlets or circuits, and use surge protectors where necessary.
– Electrical appliances and outlets should not come in contect with water.
– Educate yourself and others on electrical safety procedures.

2. Response to Electric Shock:
– If you witness someone receiving an electric shock, do not touch them until you’re certain the power is off to avoid becoming a victim yourself.
– Turn off the power source if it’s safe to do so. If you can’t turn off the power, use a non-conductive object such as a dry wooden stick to separate the person from the electrical source.
– If the person is in contact with a high-voltage wire, do not attempt to rescue them yourself. Call emergency services immediately.
– If the person is no longer in contact with the electrical source, check their responsiveness. If they’re not breathing or their heart has stopped, perform CPR if you’re trained to do so.

3. First Aid for Electric Shock:
– Check the person’s airway, breathing, and circulation. If necessary, perform CPR.
– Treat any burns with cool, clean water. Never use Ice, ointments, or creams.
– Cover the burns with sterile gauze or a clean cloth.
– Monitor the person’s vital signs and seek medical attention immediately, even if there are no visible injuries.

4. Aftercare:
– Once medical assistance has been provided, ensure the person rests and receives any necessary follow-up care.
– Document the incident thoroughly for reporting and investigation purposes.

5. Training and Preparation:
– Ensure that personnel who may be exposed to electrical hazards receive adequate training in electrical safety procedures and first aid.
– Emergency response procedures to be followed by conducting regular drills to practice

Remember, electrical safety is everyone’s responsibility. By following these practices and being prepared to respond effectively to electrical accidents, you can help prevent injuries and save lives.

If the person is in contact with the electric supply, switch off the power, removing the plug or wrenching the cable free. If not, stand on some insulating material such as dry wood, rubber or plastic, or using whatever is at hand to insulate yourself and break the contact by pushing or pulling the person free. 

If the victim is unconscious but is breathing, loosen the clothing about the neck, chest and waist                                Keep the casualty warm and comfortable and place the casualty in the recovery position.     

Here are the first aid steps to follow in the event of an electric shock:

1. Ensure Safety:
– Before approaching the victim, ensure that the power source has been turned off or the victim has been safely removed from the electrical source using a non-conductive object such as a dry wooden stick, rubber mat, or rope.
– Never touch the victim if they are still in contact with the electrical source, as you may also become a victim of electric shock.

2. Assess the Victim:
– Check the victim’s responsiveness. If they are not responsive, shout for help and call emergency services immediately.
– If the victim is responsive but injured, reassure them and encourage them to remain still.

3. Check Breathing and Circulation:
– Start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) immediately, If the victim is not breathing, Begin with chest compressions and rescue breathing.
– Perform rescue breathing. If the victim has a pulse but is not breathing,
– If the victim is breathing but unconscious, place them in the recovery position.

4. Treat Burns:
– Assess the victim for any burns caused by the electric shock. Burn injuries may not always be immediately visible, so check for redness, blistering, or charred skin.
– If the victim has minor burns, cool the affected area with cool water (not ice water) for at least 10 minutes. Avoid using ice or butter, as these can further damage the skin.
– Cover the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive dressing or clean cloth.
– If the burns are severe or cover a large area of the body, seek medical attention immediately. Do not try to remove clothing stuck to the burn.

5. Monitor Vital Signs:
– Continuously monitor the victim’s vital signs, including breathing, pulse, and level of consciousness, until medical help arrives.
– Keep the victim warm and comfortable while waiting for medical assistance.

6. Seek Medical Help:
– Even if the victim appears to be stable, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly after an electric shock. Internal injuries or delayed complications may not be immediately apparent.

  – Record details of the incident, including the nature of the electrical hazard, actions taken, and the victim’s condition, for reporting and investigation purposes.

Remember, providing prompt and appropriate first aid can significantly improve the chances of recovery for someone who has experienced an electric shock. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of others when responding to emergencies involving electricity.

Effects of Electric Shock:

Electric shocks can have various effects on the human body, ranging from mild discomfort to severe injuries or even death, depending on factors such as the voltage and current of the electrical source, the duration of exposure, and the pathway the electricity takes through the body. Some common effects of electric shock in humans include:

1. Pain and Discomfort: Electric shocks typically cause immediate pain and discomfort at the point of contact with the electrical source. This pain can range from mild tingling or burning sensations to intense, sharp pain.

2. Muscle Contractions: Electric shocks can trigger involuntary muscle contractions or spasms, which may cause the victim to lose control of their muscles. These muscle contractions can lead to falls or other injuries, especially if the victim is working at height or operating machinery.

3. Burns: Electric shocks can cause burns at the entry and exit points of the electrical current, as well as along the pathway the electricity travels through the body. The severity of burns can vary depending on factors such as the voltage and current of the electrical source and the duration of exposure.

4. Cardiac Effects: High-voltage electric shocks can disrupt the normal functioning of the heart, leading to cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), cardiac arrest, or other cardiovascular complications. Its can be life-threatening and immediate medical attention. required.

5. Respiratory Distress: Electric shocks can interfere with breathing and may cause respiratory distress or difficulty breathing. This can occur due to muscle paralysis, damage to the respiratory muscles, or neurological effects of the electrical current.

6. Neurological Effects: Electric shocks can affect the nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of sensation in the affected area. In severe cases, electric shocks can cause permanent nerve damage or neurological disorders.

7. Psychological Trauma: Experiencing an electric shock can be psychologically traumatic for the victim, leading to anxiety, fear, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially if the shock results in severe injuries.

8. Death: In extreme cases, electric shocks can result in death due to cardiac arrest, severe burns, or other life-threatening complications. High-voltage electric shocks are particularly dangerous and can cause immediate death or irreversible injuries.

It’s important to note that the effects of electric shock can vary widely depending on individual factors and the circumstances of the incident. Prompt medical attention is essential for assessing and treating electric shock injuries to minimize the risk of complications and improve the victim’s chances of recovery.

 if possible, raise the injured part above the level of the body 

     When the bleeding has stopped, put a dressing over the wound, and cover it with a pad of soft material   Apply a clean pad and bandage firmly in place,if there is Large Wound. If bleeding is very severe apply more than one dressing.