Lesson 5: Fire Prevention
Lesson 5: Fire Prevention
Fire Prevention
In Lesson Four, you learned to identify and control a variety of fire hazards; this information will definitely help to prevent fires from starting. In addition to controlling those fire hazards, there are 2 other ways to prevent a fire. This lesson deals with smoke detectors and sprinkler systems, two technologies that help greatly in the prevention of injury and death caused by fires.
Let's take a brief look at the importance of using these 2 life-saving devices.
Smoke Detectors
Why should my home or workplace have smoke detectors?
In the event of a fire, a smoke detector can save your life. They provide an early warning signal so you, your co-workers, or your family can escape in time. Smoke detectors are one of the best safety devices you can buy to protect yourself and others from the hazards of sudden fires.
When smoke is present, smoke detectors sound an alarm to warn people.
Smoke detectors can reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by nearly 50 percent.
Where Should Smoke Detectors Be Placed?
Can you think of the different places in your home or worksite, where smoke detectors should be placed?- outside of every bedroom
- on every level of the home or worksite
- in the basement
- in the dining room
- in the furnace room
- in a utility or storage room
Don't place Smoke Detectors:
- in the kitchen
- in the bathroom
- in the garage
- in cool/cold places such as attics
Sprinkler Systems
Schools, office buildings, and workplaces of all types have been installing sprinkler systems for over 100 years. What about installing sprinkler systems in homes?
Most people have installed smoke alarms in their homes, but these can only alert the occupants to a fire; they cannot extinguish a fire. A sprinkler system can!Residential sprinkler systems are now available, which respond to fire much faster than standard industrial sprinkler systems because of their improved sensitivity. They also require less water than the systems installed in commercial establishments and can therefore be connected to the domestic water supply.
Sprinkler systems for homes have gained increased acceptance and popularity. They are low cost, fast acting, reliable, and effective in reducing the loss of life and property caused by fires.
