Dangers of Fire

2/13/2018 (Permalink)

Apartment Fire

• Fire spreads Fast! 
  When a fire occurs, there is little time to escape. A fire can spread by doubling its size in seconds. In less then 30 seconds, a fire can rage out of control, filling the area with heat and toxic thick smoke. Remember, when a fire is discovered, you need to get out quick.

• Fire gets Hot!
  A fire can give off incredible amounts of heat. A room fire can range from 100 degrees at floor level to 1200 or more degrees at the ceiling. Your skin can burn with permanent injuries at 160 degrees. The heat given off from a fire alone can kill. If super heated air is inhaled it can scorch your lungs.

• Fire is Dark!
  The thick black smoke that is given off from a fire can make it blinding to see where you are going. It will be extremely difficult to see. By crawling low, it may help you to see a little better, as well as; breathe some of the cooler air. It is important to remember, if the smoke is too thick in the hallway to escape, you may need to shelter-in-place and find another way out perhaps through a window or another exit. You should always plan for at least two ways out. By closing a door(s), it can help reduce the spread of smoke and fire.

• Fire is Deadly!
  Most people who die in fires die from the toxic gases, thick black smoke, and lack of oxygen. In a fire, breathing even small amounts of these toxic elements can disorient someone, causing them to pass out. Remember smoke detectors save lives. The time to react to a fire/ smoke alarm is when it first goes off. Never ignore an alarm!