The majority of fires can be avoided. It’s critical to investigate the most common causes of fire so that suitable fire protection measures can be implemented.
What causes fires to start?
A source of ignition, fuel, and oxygen are all required for a fire to start. The cigarette is the source of ignition, the material on the sofa is the source of fuel, and the air is the supply of oxygen if a smoker falls asleep with a cigarette still light and sets fire to the sofa. If left alone, this fire will swiftly spread.
To avoid a fire, keep sources of ignition, fuel, and oxygen as far apart as possible. Obviously, because oxygen is in the air all around us, this is challenging, but it’s critical to consider what potential sources of ignition are present in your building, as well as what would allow a fire to spread once it’s started.
The most common causes of fire are:
The four most prevalent causes of accidental fires in non-dwelling properties, according to Fire and Rescue statistics from 2016/17, were:
1. Defective appliances and wires
2. Defective gasoline supply
3. Improper use of tools or appliances
4. Keeping items too close to the heat
Appliances and leads that aren’t working
The following are some examples of the most common causes of fire:
- Wiring that has become frayed
- Sockets that are overloaded
- Appliances from the past
- Plugs that have been damaged
- Appliances that are broken
Suggestions for prevention
Overheating and sparks can occur when wiring is damaged. If you notice frayed wires or overloaded sockets, replace or remove them. It’s critical to have your appliances examined by an electrician on a regular basis. Portable appliance testing (PAT) is required once a year. Keep an eye out for any product recalls and replace any damaged equipment.
Fuel supply is faulty.
Here are several examples:
- Leaks of natural gas
- A problem with the power supply
- An electrical appliance’s fuel supply is faulty
- Leaking fuel, such as gasoline, in a garage
Suggestions for prevention
All electric and gas appliances must be serviced on a regular basis. Check that everything works properly, and if it doesn’t, replace it with new, safe appliances. Ensure that any repairs are performed by a licensed heating engineer or electrician.
Spills must be adequately cleaned, especially if your workplace involves heated work.
Equipment or appliance misuse
Here are several examples:
- Electrical equipment spills
- Phones that have been left to charge for an excessive amount of time
- Portable heaters that have been left on
- Microwaves and ovens that are filthy
- In the tumble dryer, there is a lint tray.
Suggestions for prevention
When not in use, turn off electrical devices at the wall if possible. If you can, unplug. To avoid dangerous spills, don’t put something hot near something that can catch fire, and keep drinks away from electrical equipment.
Cooking should never be left alone in the kitchen. Grease and dirt can cause fires in ovens and microwaves, so keep them clean. Toasters frequently set off the fire alarm unintentionally, so use a low browning setting and remove the crumb tray on a regular basis.
Ensure that appliances are checked and maintained on a regular basis. Tumble dryers are a common source of fire, so make sure you clear the lint tray on a regular basis.
Keep areas clean since dirt and dust can cause electrical equipment to overheat. Ensure that your building is cleaned on a regular basis.
Putting things too near to the heat
Here are several examples:
- Near the stove, place a tea towel.
- Candles had been knocked over.
- At the bottom of the oven, place tin foil
- Heater for clothes
Suggestions for prevention
Keep in mind that heat is generated by electrical equipment as well as heaters and ovens.
Make sure the paper is kept away from anything that generates heat. Do not use hot devices to dry your items. Tin foil should not be used on or near the bottom of the oven because it can catch fire. For this one, all you need is common sense: if it gets hot, keep anything flammable away from it.
Fires set on purpose
It’s also crucial to think about the possibilities of arson. Sprinkler systems should be installed when practicable, and CCTV should be installed as a deterrent. Give intruders nothing to set fire to, and keep trash locked up and out of sight.
Make sure your building is properly locked and all windows are closed before you leave for the day.
In the workplace, some examples of fuel sources։
- a piece of paper
- Textiles are a type of fabric (curtains, carpets etc)
- Garbage and waste
- flammable materials (paint, cleaning materials, solvents)
- Fire-prevention precautions
Flammable substances should be stored safely, preferably in a locked cupboard, away from anything that could cause a fire to spread.
Keep in mind the consequences of smoking. Keep the smoking area away from the main building and provide a location where cigarettes can be completely extinguished.