Fire hazards are fairly common in day-to-day life. Fire hazard is a reference to a situation where factors that can start a fire are prevalent or factors that can help in escaping a potentially dangerous fire situation are absent. Measures taken for protection against such hazards are known as fire safety measures.
Fire safety is a set of precautions taken to reduce the advent of fire that can be dangerous to life or property. Such measures ensure that adequate steps are taken to guard areas that are at risk of starting a fire or of getting damaged in case a fire erupts. Thus, safety measures help in avoiding or reducing the damage caused by unwarranted fire.
Common Hazards
We do not realize that the most common systems and equipments around us can be a source of hazard. Our electric systems, gas supplies and cooking appliances are used day in and day out without any thought of a potential dangerous fire situation that can be caused by any of these items. Let us review few things that are used regularly and can be a risk to our safety.
Any electrical system is meant to run within certain limits. It is established to take a certain amount of load only and thus, overloading an electric system can result in hot wire connections that can easily cause fire. Electric wiring that runs through our entire home can cause short circuits that lead to fire. Hence, it is important to keep them in good condition.
Electronic equipment, appliances for cooking and heating, and ignition sources like candles and lighters can all lead to fire. Flammable liquids and combustible substances need to be stored properly in all conditions especially during summers. Adequate precaution should be taken while disposing used cigarette stubs and barbeque material.
Fire Safety Measures
Looking at the examples above, it is quite clear that day-to-day activities can lead to potentially dangerous situations if not dealt with properly. Hence, safety measures are important and in most cases they are made mandatory by various regulatory authorities.
Thus, a building needs to be constructed with the required safety measures as specified by the local government. Adequate number and placement of fire extinguishers along with proper exit routes with correct signage are an example of things to be considered while construction. Fire alarm systems are mandatory in areas which are at higher risk of getting affected by fire.
Other than the precautions in construction, wiring and use of equipments; occupants in a building are also expected to give due consideration to safety norms. Most places like schools and offices have compulsory safety training that is provided to a set of people to ensure proper use of safety equipments in case of fire. This training also includes general information on use and storage of flammable and combustible material.
The right safety measures are important to avoid any unfortunate incidents caused by fire. Precautions should be taken at an individual and also at a collective level so that such incidents can be prevented or the damage can be minimized.
