Essential Fire Fighting Safety Equipment for a Developed Property

by 02:45 3 comments
Fire as a hazard for life and property has always been a concern for any city. Ancient cities had their own strict regulations for fire safety. But as the organisation of civilisations and cities became more and more complex, fire safety regulations have also become more detailed and stringent. Establishment of proper fire codes and regulation is today a national policy of most countries.


In India fire safety regulations are clearly specified in the National Building Code (NBC). Although a national policy, States have the responsibility of making their own code. The code contains standard requirements for the design and construction of any developed building. There are three aims in establishing fire safety protocols:
  • Guaranteeing safety of life
  • Protecting property. This includes plant and equipment on site.
  • Protection of operations
Defaulting on NBC can lead to severe penalties, withdrawal of sanction and, in case construction was carried out, demolition.

Fire fighting safety equipment

There are some essential fire safety equipment that you need at a property. While for most homes a fire extinguisher may be sufficient, a bigger property will need more than that. These include other equipment like alarms, blankets, safety sigs and first-aid box.

Alarm: This is a warning system. An alarm can immediately alert all occupants of any dangerous smoke hazard. With the alarm we can save lives even before the fire spreads. Traditionally this was a bell hung outside a house, which was connected to a heavy bell inside.
Today we have battery alarms that are interconnected to each other. One alarm triggers the entire system. However, these should be checked regularly. Many battery alarms come with indicator buttons to warn us in time.

Detection system: An early detection system can be invaluable. Detection systems use heat or smoke. Some use a combination of both. The system is linked to fire alarms, triggering an immediate call when fire is detected. Some are connected to the local fire station. The automation of the detection system means that there is no chance of a human error, such as carelessness or ignorance. By connecting to the local station, it ensures an immediate wide response to an emergency.

Fire extinguisher: This is one of the most basic fire fighting safety equipment that even as individual home must have. There are different grades and types of extinguisher depending on the usage. One must ensure that the right type is selected.

Fire blanket: This is a handy equipment in case of a small fire. It works by smothering the fire with a blanket. This way we take out one of the most essential elements of a fire - oxygen.

Safety signs: Not strictly an equipment, but proper signage can be just as important in bigger buildings. Signages are essential in labelling equipment, indicating the path to safe areas and marking exit points from a building.

Fire escape ladder: What do you do when a fire has taken over your home? The only thing to do is to evacuate. The only safe way to do this from a higher floor is through a fire escape ladder. These lightweight ladders should be stored at an easily accessible place and should be easily dropped down from a window or balcony.

Fire Control Systems: Many buildings today are equipped with a sprinkler system that are automatically activated in case of fire. The sprinkler head release a fine mist of water to douse the fire. In areas with flammable liquid, electronic equipment etc where water can damage the stored property, a flood system is used for dousing fire. A gaseous flood cuts out the oxygen, preventing the fire from spreading. A warning system is sounded beforehand to ensure evacuation of all personnel.

Fire Hoses and hydrants:
In some places we may have fire hydrants placed for quick access to water. A canvass hose ensure that water from the hydrant can be taken to the affected location.

Conclusion

Most of the fire fighting safety equipment must be checked on a periodic basis. There are no margins of error when it comes to fire safety equipment. A faulty equipment is as good as no equipment at all. So, ensure periodic inspection of the fire extinguisher, smoke alarm, detection and control system. Above all, ensure that all residents are well aware of the safety protocols.

3 comments:

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  2. Whether it is home of office it is very necessary to keep fire safety kit, Alarm, Detection system, Fire extinguisher, Fire blanket, Fire Control Systems and more. Rather like a form of insurance, necessary to have, just in case.

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