How Fast Can Fire Spread?
What Is Fire?
Fire is the result of a chemical reaction called oxidation. Oxidation is the combination of oxygen with another substance. In the case of a fire, the oxidation happens so quickly that light, heat, and sound are released.
A fire needs oxygen, heat and fuel to burn. These factors are frequently referred to as the “fire triangle.” The chemical reaction is the fourth element, which is the fire itself.
Fire Fuel
A fire can be fueled by many things, especially items in homes and businesses. Today’s furnishings are made primarily of synthetic materials which are highly combustible. Paints, cleaners, magazines, newspapers, paper, clothing, window treatments, wood moldings, and trim are all combustible. Some of the most flammable liquids commonly kept in the home include rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, aerosol cans, non-dairy creamer, and gasoline. Items like this make it easy for a fire to spread once started.
Open spaces also allow fires to spread quickly, particularly areas like the ductwork for central heating or air conditioning.
Fire Spread Rate
In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can become engulfed in flames.
These are the sobering statistics regarding house fires displayed by Ready.gov, the official website of the Department of Homeland Security. Ready.gov and The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA stress the importance of having an up-to-date fire escape plan, as well as working smoke alarms in homes and businesses. The NFPA also suggests installing fire sprinklers when building or remodeling homes. Sprinklers can be key in containing and even extinguishing a fire before the fire department arrives on scene.
Putting Out Fires
To put out a fire, you must remove one of the three elements of the fire triangle: oxygen, heat, or fuel. Fire extinguishers essentially put fires out by taking away one or more of these elements.
Because fire spreads so quickly, the NFPA says that the number one priority for people during a fire is to get out. Yes, fire extinguishers can put out a fire confined in a small area, but they have limitations and they will not work in every situation. Additionally, many civilians do not know how to operate a fire extinguisher properly.
You may think that filling a bucket full of water is a good way to douse the flames, but that will not always work. For example, the oxygen source for flammable liquids like oil, alcohol, gasoline, paint, or propane must be removed to put out a fire. A stream of water may spread the flaming material rather than neutralize it.
How to Prevent Fires
The best way to protect yourself and your family is to test your smoke detectors and fire alarms regularly and create a safety plan for your home and office. No matter where you are in a building, always know where the nearest exits are and how you can exit a multi-floor building safely. You should also always know where the areas of refuge are located in multi-story buildings.
Fires can occur suddenly and without warning, and they can spread incredibly quickly. Every second counts so plan at least two ways out.
FSS Technologies specializes in residential and small business fire alarms as part of your total security system solution, as well as the design and installation of complete life safety systems in large commercial properties.
Explore Our Other Blogs
What to Do if Someone Breaks into Your House
Arriving home to find that your home has been burglarized is one of the worst feelings someone can have. You’re left feeling raw, vulnerable, and angry. In this time of high stress, it may be hard to put your thoughts together to remember everything that now needs to be done. We have put together a list…
How to Prepare for a Fire Inspection
Updated May 2023 Most people learn how to react to fire alarms from a young age. The sharp, jarring noise of the sirens instantly notifies everyone within earshot of a possible emergency and the need to evacuate. These fire safety alarm systems are mandated worldwide and need regular inspections and maintenance to promote safety. As…
Best Security System Setups for Senior Citizens
According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 90% of senior citizens want to stay in their homes as they age even if they need day-to-day assistance or have ongoing health issues like early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. Unfortunately, criminals often target senior citizens as victims. Thieves assume older people will not be able…
What are the Different Kinds of Security Video Storage?
Security Video Recordings Storage How much storage does a security camera have? It is a seemingly simple question, with a surprisingly complicated answer. Security and surveillance cameras can use a variety of storage types, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. To choose the right security video storage for you, you will need to consider…
Security Integrations with Avigilon Alta
Security systems and integrations For business owners and managers, security systems are a key tool in protecting your customers, property, and commercial operations. There are several components to consider when working to create the best security system for your business, and there’s never a one-size-fits-all solution. A helpful approach to finding the best fit for…
Kidde: Innovations in Fire Safety
Your fire alarm system can protect your family, home, and belongings from fires, gas leaks, and other hazards. FSS Technologies is committed to providing its customers with top-of-the-line fire safety and emergency prevention technology, which is why we are a proud provider of products from Kidde, North America’s most installed fire safety brand. Learn about…
Fire Safety Procedures for the Workplace
The bad news—a fire breaks out in your workplace. The good news—you are ready because you have done your homework and prepared for the possibility of an emergency. Emergency Action Plan The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires most employers to have an emergency action plan for various scenarios, including fires in the workplace. There are…
Can Your CCTV and Access Control Systems be Integrated?
When setting up security for your business, you might consider adding CCTV and access control systems. These two security measures work great to deter crime on their own, and provide even greater security when integrated. This pairing has many advantages, but it is also a complex setup that may not be right for you. There…
Tips to Prevent Your Security System from Being Hacked
The Risky Business of Ring’s Vulnerable Security and other DIY security systems can leave your home as a potential target for hackers or thieves. When you are investing in a security system, you are hoping for peace of mind, and you are trusting this technology with your safety and property. Have I Been Hacked? A hacker may…
What are the Best Outdoor Security Cameras?
When it comes to protecting your home, you need to think about both the indoor and outdoor components of your security system. Security cameras can allow you to see and monitor what is going on, even if you aren’t there in person. Placing cameras outside to protect your home or business requires a bit more…