Oxidized hydrogen, AKA dihydrogen monoxide, AKA “water” in the form of water vapor (gaseous water). This actually gives us a clue as to WHY water puts out fire.

How do Water Extinguishers work? Water and Water Additive Fire Extinguishers work by spraying a jet of water at the fire, which extinguishes the flames and the burning materials, preventing the fire re-igniting.

Never use water to extinguish flammable liquid fires. Water is extremely ineffective at extinguishing this type of fire, and you may, in fact, spread the fire if you try to use water on it.

Suitable for use on class A solid combustible fires (wood, paper, fabrics, coal) water fire extinguishers penetrate burning materials, creating a cooling effect and prevent reignition.

Carbon dioxide covers the fire and cut-off the contact of oxygen and fuel. When carbon dioxide is released, it expands enormously and cools down. Due to this temperature it brings down and this helps in controlling the fire.

Firefighters should be fully proficient in all the 4 main Fire Attack techniques and how they may be combined. Most importantly, know each one’s uses and limitations. With this knowledge they can dynamically choose the best and safest fire fighting techniques for any given situation.

In order to fight a fire, you must take out any one of the fire elements. The most common method is to use water to put out the fire. The water takes away heat by cooling the fire. Water also smothers the fire, taking away oxygen.

Throw lots of baking soda or salt on it. Never use flour, which can explode or make the fire worse. Smother the fire with a wet towel or other large wet cloth. Use a fire extinguisher.

Five steps to a risk assessment

• Step 1 – Identify people at risk. Have you identified who is at risk?
• Step 2 – Identify fire hazards. Have you identified all potential fuel sources?
• Step 3 – Evaluate the risk. Are your fire safety measures are adequate?
• Step 4 – Record your findings.
• Step 5 – Review and revise.

In simple terms yes, there is no reason why you cannot complete your own fire safety risk assessment. The Fire Safety Risk Assessment must be completed by a “Competent Person”. Therefore you must have the necessary knowledge, skills and experience. The Fire Safety Risk Assessment must also be “Suitable and Sufficient”.