Water Fire Extinguisher

Promoting Fire Safety in Colleges and Universities

Fire prevention is imperative in colleges and universities due to the increasing number of fire-related emergencies that occur in these places. There are several reasons why these events occur but the primary culprit is the use of alcohol. Victims of fires in campuses are usually under the influence of alcohol. Cooking and careless smoking are also crucial factors in fire breakouts.

It is the main responsibility of the local fire department and fire engineering division to further boost the knowledge of the students and faculty in preventive measures in the incidences of fire.

Safety precautions should be taught in a course related to fire prevention and safety. Some of these preventive measures are:

• Teach students on proper use of the 911 system to notify the fire department. This is important because improper use can cause delays in emergency response. Before firefighters can even bring out their fire hose reels, damage to school property and injuries has already occurred.
• Regular inspections of rooms and buildings for potential hazards. By determining these risks, the possibility of starting a fire can be decreased in half.
• Make sure exit doors and windows are free from obstructions and are working properly.
• Maintain smoke and fire alarms regularly and replace batteries every semester.
• Have a detailed escape route plan and disseminate these to all concerned especially students.
• Take caution in electrical appliances and do not overload sockets.
• Conduct fire drills and remind students to take this seriously.
• It is also important for students to know how to use fire extinguishers and what type is used for each purpose. Here are some commonly used fire extinguishers:

1. A water fire extinguisher is functional in putting out fires which are fuelled by wood, fabric and paper. They are not in any circumstance to be used in fires caused by gases or liquids. When using this type of extinguisher, hold firmly onto the hose and point it directly at the base of the fire. There are several types of this kind of extinguisher, one works with a cartridge while another use water pressure. Some water extinguisher also use additives like other chemicals that help put out fires. This device is less dangerous than other types because it only displaces oxygen.

2. A dry powder fire extinguisher works for Class A, B, and C fires and has one of the most adaptable fire control options. It has a variety of types and comprises of pressurized nitrogen and powder. ABC extinguishers are filled with potassium bicarbonate and sodium bicarbonate and often leave sediments behind. This is a corrosive material so it must be cleaned off immediately.

3. A foam fire extinguisher contains foam that forms a film quickly which knocks down flames. This film works like a fire blanket and prevents the fire from getting more oxygen. It is used for Class A and B fires.

Every year college and universities experience a growing number of fire tragedies that happen in campuses. There are several factors that can attribute to this occurrence but it still boils down to general lack of knowledge of fire protection and preparation. Give these students basic information about preventive measures and they will surely outsmart fire outbreaks.