Fire Safety for Bonfire Night: A Guide to Keeping Safe

Fire Safety for Bonfire Night: A Guide to Keeping Safe

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Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is a much-anticipated celebration across the UK. With dazzling fireworks, glowing bonfires, and the smell of toasted marshmallows in the air, it’s a night filled with excitement and tradition. However, Bonfire Night also brings its share of potential hazards. To ensure everyone enjoys the festivities safely, it’s essential to follow proper fire safety guidelines.

In this post, we’ll explore the key tips for staying safe on Bonfire Night, whether you’re attending a public event or hosting your own celebration.

1. Attend Organised Displays

The safest way to enjoy Bonfire Night is to attend an organised event. These displays are typically run by professionals who are trained in fire safety, and they’re often held in large, open spaces where there’s less risk of accidents.

Benefits of Attending Organised Events:

– Trained Personnel: Professionals manage fireworks, ensuring they are launched correctly and safely.

– Crowd Management: Large events have measures in place to control crowds and minimise accidents.

– Better Fireworks: Professional displays are usually larger and more impressive than DIY setups.

2. Bonfire Safety Tips

If you’re planning to have your own bonfire, it’s crucial to follow these safety tips to prevent accidents.

Location:

– Distance: Place the bonfire at least 18 metres (60 feet) away from houses, fences, trees, and overhead cables.

– Surface: Build the fire on level ground, ideally away from dry grass or leaves that could catch fire.

Building the Bonfire:

– Use Dry Materials: Only use dry wood and paper to build the bonfire. Avoid using flammable liquids like petrol or paraffin, as they can cause dangerous flare-ups.

– Size: Keep the bonfire at a manageable size to ensure it remains under control.

Lighting the Bonfire:

– Use Long Matches: Light the bonfire from a safe distance, using a long match or a taper.

– Wind Direction: Ensure the wind isn’t blowing towards spectators or buildings.

Monitoring:

– Supervision: Never leave a bonfire unattended. Always have a responsible adult keeping an eye on the fire.

– Extinguishing: Keep a bucket of water, a hosepipe, or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies. Make sure the fire is completely extinguished at the end of the night.

3. Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are a key part of Bonfire Night, but they come with significant risks if not handled correctly. Here’s how to enjoy fireworks safely:

Buying Fireworks:

– Check Labels: Only buy fireworks that conform to British Standards (look for BS 7114 or the CE mark).

– Storage: Store fireworks in a closed box and keep them away from sources of heat or open flames until you’re ready to use them.

Setting Off Fireworks:

– Follow Instructions: Always read the instructions on each firework carefully and follow them to the letter.

– Distance: Spectators should stand at least 15–25 metres away, depending on the type of firework.

– Lighting: Use a taper to light fireworks at arm’s length and move back immediately after lighting. Never return to a firework once it has been lit, even if it doesn’t go off.

Sparklers:

– Safety with Sparklers: Sparklers can reach temperatures of up to 2,000°C, so they should be handled with care. Always wear gloves, supervise children closely, and have a bucket of cold water nearby to dispose of used sparklers.

4. Keep Children and Pets Safe

Bonfire Night can be overwhelming for young children and pets, so extra precautions are necessary to keep them safe and comfortable.

For Children:

– Supervision: Always supervise children around bonfires and fireworks. Make sure they understand the dangers and stay at a safe distance.

– Protective Gear: Consider ear defenders for younger children to protect their ears from loud noises, and dress them warmly in flame-resistant clothing.

For Pets:

– Indoors is Best: Keep pets inside during Bonfire Night to reduce their stress levels and avoid them getting hurt by fireworks or bonfires.

– Comfort: Close curtains, turn on the TV or radio, and create a quiet, calm space for your pets to retreat to if they are anxious.

5. First Aid for Fireworks and Bonfire Injuries

Even with precautions, accidents can happen. Here are some basic first-aid tips:

Burns:

– Cool the Burn: Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for at least 10 minutes. Do not use ice or creams.

– Cover the Burn: After cooling, cover the burn with a clean, non-fluffy dressing or cloth.

– Seek Medical Help: If the burn is large or on the face, hands, or feet, seek immediate medical attention.

Firework Injuries:

– Eye Injuries: If debris from fireworks gets into the eye, avoid rubbing the eye. Rinse gently with clean water and seek immediate medical attention.

Smoke Inhalation:

– Fresh Air: Move the affected person to fresh air immediately.

– Medical Help: If breathing problems persist, call 999 for emergency assistance.

6. Environmental Considerations

While celebrating, it’s important to consider the environment. Bonfires can release harmful chemicals into the air, and fireworks contribute to noise and light pollution.

Eco-Friendly Choices:

– Cleaner Fuels: Use untreated wood for your bonfire, as painted or treated wood can release toxic fumes.

– Alternative Fireworks: Look for quieter or more eco-friendly fireworks, which are less disruptive to wildlife and pets.

Conclusion

Bonfire Night is a fantastic tradition, but safety should always come first. Whether you’re attending an organised event or hosting your own celebration, following these fire safety tips will help ensure everyone enjoys the night without any mishaps. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in making Bonfire Night both fun and safe for all.

Stay safe and enjoy the celebration!

how often should fire extinguishers be checked

How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Checked and Serviced?

by with No Comment InformationRules and Regulations

Fire extinguishers are essential safety devices that play a crucial role in protecting lives and property during fire emergencies. To guarantee that they will function properly when needed, they must undergo routine maintenance, just like any other piece of safety gear.

Maintaining the safety of any facility during an emergency requires regular maintenance of fire extinguishers, which may be accomplished by equipment maintenance and fire safety inspections. A responsible person can do certain inspections on-site, but many inspections need to be carried out by a trained technician.

It’s important to understand the many kinds of fire extinguishing services available, as they will vary slightly if you own CO2 fire extinguishers. Find out when your fire extinguishers need to be serviced and what is involved in each service. We’ve included all the information you require to test fire extinguishers below.

Regular Visual Inspections Of Fire Extinguishers

Like other fire safety equipment, your fire extinguishers need to be inspected once a month. Unlike a full-service, this can be visually examined to ensure that all parts are still present and functioning properly.

These monthly inspections apply to all kinds of extinguishers, whether they are Water, CO2, Foam, Wet Chemical or Powder extinguishers. Visual checks are quick and easy; all you need to do is make sure someone responsible looks at the seal, pressure gauge, and head cap pin to make sure they haven’t been tampered with.

To ensure that someone can operate it in an emergency, you may also check to see if it is still fastened to the wall bracket and that the instructions are still readable.

Basic Fire Extinguisher Service

A basic service needs to happen once per year which building managers or wonders need to book and arrange under the BS 5036-6 regulation. Since a malfunctioning fire extinguisher might result in fatalities, this service is more thorough than your monthly checks and is typically performed by a technician with professional accreditation.

During annual inspections, experts typically replace the fire extinguisher’s components and perform a more thorough inspection of every one of them. Even though fire extinguishers age, replacing these parts keeps them functional and ready for use in an emergency.

Extended Fire Extinguisher Service

Technicians will once more be required to carry out an extended fire extinguisher service. Since these inspections are more thorough than yearly and monthly ones, they must be performed every five years. All types of extinguishers, such as Water, Foam, Powder or Wet Chemical, are serviced in the same way during these kinds of inspections, except for CO2. 

Everything in the basic services will be covered and then the technician will discharge the fire extinguisher. They will look at the distance and pattern of the fire suppressant material, to make sure it is up to current standards. This lets you know that your fire extinguisher would perform well and efficiently in a real emergency.

How CO2 Fire Extinguishers Are Serviced

The CO2 fire extinguisher is a separate animal altogether from the other types. Many types of businesses like these extinguishers because they have a significantly higher pressure and only require full servicing every ten years.

When the time does come around to service your CO2 extinguisher, which is called an overhaul, it often needs to be sent to an accredited service centre to be looked over and parts replaced and fixed, if necessary.

What Is Involved in a Fire Extinguisher Servicing?

Every component of the fire extinguisher, including the gauges and valves, will be inspected by a professional to ensure that it is undamaged and in good operating order. Extinguishers will also be inspected for corrosion, as they are susceptible to it. Technicians can determine whether there is a problem by weighing it and determining if it falls within the required range.

After each of these tasks has been performed, you will be given a certificate of inspection, proving that the fire extinguisher has been serviced and is up to all regulations and standards that need to be adhered to.

When Should You Replace an Old Fire Extinguisher?

It takes a few years for fire extinguishers to lose their safety and fail a fire risk assessment, even with regular maintenance. As time goes on, defective or subpar parts will be replaced during inspections, making it increasingly difficult to find these parts for earlier models.

Either the fire extinguisher fails an inspection with a fault that can’t be repaired, or more often than not, the older models of extinguisher become outdated. This is because the parts older models need will no longer be available or they will be harder to come by and replacing the parts will not be economically viable anymore. Some technicians will recommend a new fire extinguisher every 5 years if the type of fire extinguisher is cheaper to re-buy than complete the full service.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining fire extinguishers’ dependability and emergency performance requires routine maintenance and inspections. Your fire extinguishers will be ready when you need them most if you adhere to a regular plan of monthly visual inspections, yearly expert servicing, and extended fire extinguisher servicing.

If you’re unsure about the condition or maintenance history of your fire extinguishers, it’s always a good idea to consult with a certified fire safety professional. Feel free to reach out to us with any other questions or queries. Safety is most important, and well-maintained fire extinguishers are an essential part of any comprehensive fire protection plan.

Stay safe!

blamed on lithium-ion battery fire

Walleys Quarry blaze blamed on lithium-ion battery fire

by with One Comment News

Investigators have found the cause of the blaze at controversial landfill site Walleys Quarry. The fire has been blamed on a lithium-ion battery fire. The Silverdale landfill had to close following the blaze temporarily.

But it reopened within days – much to the anger of campaigners. Now Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have revealed the most likely cause of the fire.

It has triggered fresh calls for residents to properly dispose of electrical items. Lithium-ion batteries are found inside many everyday household items, including laptops, mobile phones and tablets.

Fire investigator Liam Hickey said: “The rise in the number of electrical items containing lithium-ion batteries brings significant fire risk if they are discarded at waste sites instead of being recycled. When damaged, these batteries can be dangerous to the public, waste operators and firefighters as they cause fires that are challenging to tackle. We are calling on people to make sure that they always recycle their electricals.”

To learn more about lithium-ion battery fires, including how to dispose of them properly, you can check out our complete guide on the topic HERE. This guide also includes helpful tips to help you stay safe when having these batteries in your home. Stay safe!

someone parked over the fire hydrant

Fire crews race to fire in Nuneaton but find someone parked over the fire hydrant

by with One Comment News

Fire crews raced to a 999 call to report an arson attack in Nuneaton only to find another problem. They found someone parked over the fire hydrant cover. Firefighters from the Newtown Road-based station responded to calls that a tree was on fire in Stockingford Recreation Ground earlier this afternoon (August 12th).

The flaming tree was close to fencing at the rear of some residents’ homes. But when the engines arrived to put out the flames, they found that someone parked over the fire hydrant cover plate.

Despite there being yellow markings on the road, the car was parked over the plate, meaning firefighters could not access it. Fortunately, the crews said they had enough water in the tank to put out the flames.

But they warned that the situation could have been very different had they been responding to a house fire. A post on the Nuneaton Fire Station page on Facebook urged motorists to think before they park as well as images of the blocked plate and the remains of the tree following the fire.

“Please park considerately,” it read. “Those little yellow hydrant plates you see on the pavement and in the road are there for fire engines to access water.

“This time we managed with one tank of water but things would be very difficult for us if it was a house fire.” Another post explained that, in Warwickshire, yellow paint is used to help crews identify a fire hydrant cover. “The hydrant requires a standpipe to access the water supply and a specially designed key to turn the water on,” the post read.

“Please take care not to park your car above or too close to a fire hydrant as it could be needed in an emergency at any time.”

Types of Fire Extinguishers PDF

Types of Fire Extinguishers PDF

by with One Comment Types of Fire Extinguisher

Guide to Different Types of Fire Extinguishers

Fire safety is important, whether it’s at home, work, or in public places. One of the key tools to stop a fire is a fire extinguisher. But did you know that not all fire extinguishers are the same? Each type is made to put out specific kinds of fires, so it’s important to know which one to use.

This guide will help you learn about the different types of fire extinguishers, how they work, and which fires they are best for. Whether you’re at home, running a business, or just want to be prepared, this information can help you make the right choice in case of a fire.

Download this PDF to understand more about fire extinguishers and how to use them to keep yourself and others safe.

Types of Fire Extinguishers – DOWNLOAD

Whether you live in a cosy flat in London or a sprawling house in the countryside, having a fire escape plan is essential.

How to Create and Practise a Fire Escape Plan

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Fire safety is a critical aspect of home safety that every household should prioritise. A well-thought-out fire escape plan can be the difference between life and death. Whether you live in a cosy flat in London or a sprawling house in the countryside, having a fire escape plan is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating and practising an effective fire escape plan for your home.

Step 1: Assess Your Home

The first step in creating a fire escape plan is to assess your home thoroughly. Understand the layout, including all possible exits such as doors and windows. Take note of the following:

1. Primary Exits: Identify the main doors used daily.

2. Secondary Exits: Locate windows and other doors that can be used in an emergency.

3. Escape Ladders: If you live in a multi-storey building, consider installing escape ladders for the upper floors.

4. Obstacles: Identify any obstacles that might impede escape and find ways to remove or circumvent them.

Step 2: Draw a Floor Plan

Create a detailed floor plan of your home. This can be done on paper or using a digital tool. Ensure to include:

– All rooms

– Hallways

– Doors

– Windows

– Staircases

– Emergency ladders

Mark all possible exits clearly. Highlight the primary escape route in green and the secondary route in orange. This visual aid will be crucial during practice drills.

Step 3: Designate Meeting Points

Choose a safe meeting point outside your home where everyone will gather after escaping. Ensure the spot is:

– A safe distance from the house

– Easily identifiable

– Accessible to all family members

Common meeting points include a specific tree, a neighbour’s house, or a street lamp.

Step 4: Install and Check Safety Equipment

Proper safety equipment can significantly improve your chances of safely escaping a fire. Ensure you have:

– Smoke Alarms: Install them in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Test them weekly if possible.

– Fire Extinguishers: Keep them in easily accessible locations, such as the kitchen and garage.

– Fire Blankets: Place them in the kitchen and near any fireplaces.

– Escape Ladders: If needed, install them on upper floors and ensure everyone knows how to use them.

Step 5: Educate Your Household

Ensure every member of your household understands the fire escape plan. Conduct a meeting to discuss:

– The layout of the escape routes

– The importance of not opening hot doors (check with the back of the hand)

– Crawling low under smoke to avoid inhalation

– The procedure for using escape ladders and fire extinguishers

Step 6: Conduct Regular Drills

Practice makes perfect. Conduct regular fire drills to ensure everyone knows how to respond in an emergency. Follow these steps during a drill:

1. Sound the Alarm: Use your smoke alarm to start the drill.

2. Execute the Plan: Everyone should practice using both primary and secondary escape routes.

3. Meet at the Designated Point: Gather at your safe meeting point.

4. Review and Improve: After each drill, discuss what went well and what could be improved. Adjust your plan accordingly.

Tips for Effective Drills

– Conduct Drills in Different Conditions: Practice during the day and at night to simulate different scenarios.

– Use a Timer: Time how long it takes to evacuate. Aim to get everyone out within two minutes.

– Simulate Realistic Conditions: For example, block an exit to ensure everyone knows how to use the secondary route.

Additional Safety Tips

– Teach Children Fire Safety: Ensure children understand the danger of fires and the importance of the escape plan. Teach them how to call emergency services (999 in the UK).

– Stay Low and Go: Instruct everyone to crawl low under smoke to reduce inhalation risks.

– Never Re-enter: Once out, never go back inside a burning building. Inform the fire brigade if someone is missing.

Conclusion

Creating and practising a fire escape plan is a vital step in ensuring your household’s safety. By following these steps and regularly updating and practising your plan, you can significantly improve your chances of escaping a fire unharmed. Remember, preparation is key – stay safe, stay prepared, and make fire safety a priority in your home.

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For more tips on home safety, have a look at our rich collection of informative blog posts HERE to stay informed with the latest advice and best practices. Stay safe!

The most common causes of household fires in the UK

The most common causes of household fires in the UK

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No one wants to think about household fires, but they are a real possibility. According to UK government records in the 2021/22 annual period, there were 33,389 dwelling (a house, flat, or another place of residence) fires in the UK. When looking at statistics and data, the causes of household fires across one year are eye-opening. This is the breakdown of the most common causes of household fires in the UK.

What are the most common causes of household fires in the UK?

Cooking appliances are by far the most common cause of household fires in the UK, accounting for 44% of fires (10,494 in total) in 2022/23.

Here is a breakdown of the leading causes of house fires and the most common ignition sources.

1. Cooking appliances: 10,494 fires

The most common causes of cooking-related fires in UK homes are cookers & ovens (accounting for 6,762 fires), rings & hot plates (1,311), and grills & toasters (1,016). 

2. Electrical distribution: 2,972 fires

The most common sources of ignition for electrical-related fires in UK homes are faulty wiring, cabling & plugs (2,219 incidents), batteries & generators (718) and heating equipment (35).

3. Smoking-related materials: 2,163 fires

There were 2,163 smoking-related fires recorded in 2022/23, with smoking materials such as cigarettes and cigarette lighters accounting for 1,979 fires and 184 fires respectively. 

4. Domestic appliances: 2,122 fires

Domestic appliances caused 2,122 house fires in 2022/23. Tumble dryers accounted for 593 fires, followed by washing machines (432 fires) and fridge/freezers (157).  

5. Matches and Candles: 1,057 fires

Candles were the cause of 915 house fires in 2022/23, while matches caused 142 fires. 

The materials mainly responsible for the spread of the fire in homes are as follows:

  • Textiles, upholstery and furnishings such as clothing and textiles
  • Food, predominantly cooking oil or fat
  • Structures and fittings such as internal wiring insulation

What other causes are there of fires?

Other causes of fires made up 21.1% of fires. This statistic comprises fires where the causes could not be identified. This also includes arson, and other fire causes such as houses being caught in wildfires. 

When do most house fires occur in the UK?

House fires can happen at any time of day but are most common between the hours of 6 pm and 8 pm. Fires happen least between the hours of 4 am and 6 am. 

Most house fires occur in April and June when house fires average 79 a day. Meanwhile, the fewest occur in September, when house fires average 65 a day.

How many deaths are caused by fire each year in the UK?

There were 335 fire-related deaths in the UK in 2021/22. The highest number of deaths caused by fire occurred in 1985/86 when there were 967 fire-related fatalities.

The Critical Role of Fire Safety Signs

The Critical Role of Fire Safety Signs: A Lifesaving Guide

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When we think about fire safety, we often go to fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and evacuation plans. However, one of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects of fire safety is the proper usage of fire safety signs. These signs are not mere decorations or compliance checks; they are vital tools designed to save lives and prevent injuries during emergencies. 

Why Fire Safety Signs Matter

1. Immediate Recognition and Response:

Fire safety signs provide clear and immediate information that helps individuals react swiftly in a fire emergency. The distinct colours and symbols are universally recognised, allowing people to understand instructions even under stress quickly. This can make the difference between a smooth evacuation and a chaotic, potentially fatal scenario.

2. Guiding Evacuation Routes:

In the event of a fire, knowing the quickest and safest exit can be lifesaving. Fire exit signs illuminate the way, especially in smoke-filled or dark conditions. These signs should be strategically placed and regularly maintained to ensure visibility and clarity.

3. Indicating Firefighting Equipment Locations:

Signs indicating the location of fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and alarms ensure that anyone can quickly find and use these tools. This is crucial not just for employees trained in fire safety, but also for visitors or customers who might be present in the building.

4. Preventing Fire Spread:

Fire safety signs also play a preventive role. Signs indicating ‘No Smoking,’ ‘Flammable Materials,’ or ‘Fire Door – Keep Closed’ help reduce the risk of a fire starting or spreading. They remind individuals of the fire hazards and the importance of following safety protocols.

5. Compliance with Regulations:

Adhering to fire safety sign regulations is not just about avoiding fines. Compliance ensures that your establishment meets the required safety standards designed to protect lives. It reflects a commitment to safety and can enhance your reputation as a responsible business or organisation.

Key Elements of Effective Fire Safety Signage

To be effective, fire safety signs must be:

– Highly Visible: Signs should be placed at eye level and in well-lit areas. In large or complex buildings, signs should be repeated at regular intervals.

– Clear and Unambiguous: Use universally recognised symbols and avoid clutter. The message should be immediately understood, even from a distance.

– Well-Maintained: Regular inspections should be conducted to ensure signs are not faded, damaged, or obscured. Replace any signs that do not meet these criteria.

– Illuminated or Reflective: In the event of power failure, signs should be visible in the dark. Consider using photoluminescent or LED signs for critical areas.

– Up-to-date: Ensure all signage complies with current fire safety regulations and standards. Update them whenever there are changes in building layout or safety protocols.

Training and Awareness

Even the best signs are ineffective if individuals are unaware of their meanings and importance. Regular training sessions for all occupants of a building, including employees, visitors, and tenants, can ensure everyone knows how to respond to these signs during an emergency. Drills and educational programs should reinforce the locations and meanings of all fire safety signs.

Conclusion

Fire safety signs are a fundamental component of an effective fire safety strategy. They provide essential information that can save lives and reduce injuries during emergencies. By ensuring that these signs are properly used, clearly visible, and well-understood by everyone in the building, we can significantly enhance our readiness and response to fire incidents. Investing time and resources in maintaining and educating about fire safety signs is not just a regulatory necessity; it is a crucial step in safeguarding lives and property.

Using Fire Extinguishers for Barbeques

Mastering Fire Safety: Using Fire Extinguishers for Barbeques and Bonfires

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Summer is synonymous with barbeques and bonfires, activities that bring joy, warmth, and mouthwatering meals. However, these outdoor delights come with an element of risk—fire hazards. Understanding how to safely extinguish a fire can make the difference between a minor incident and a potential disaster. This blog post will guide you through the essentials of using fire extinguishers for different types of barbeques and outside bonfires, ensuring your gatherings remain safe and enjoyable.

Types of Fires and Fire Extinguishers

Before diving into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand the types of fires and the corresponding fire extinguishers:

  • Class A: fires involving ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth.
  • Class B: fires involving flammable liquids.
  • Class C: fires involving flammable gases.
  • Class D: fires involving combustible metals.
  • Electrical: not their own class. Occur when live electrical equipment is involved in a fire.
  • Class F: fires involving cooking oils or fats.

Each class of fire requires a specific type of extinguisher:

  • Water Extinguishers (Class A)
  • Foam Extinguishers (Class A, B)
  • Dry Powder Extinguishers (Class A, B, C, Electrical)
  • CO2 Extinguishers (Class B, Electrical)
  • Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Class A, F)

Fire Safety for Barbeques

1. Charcoal Barbeques

– Fire Type: Class A (Charcoal)

– Extinguisher: Water or Foam Extinguishers are effective for extinguishing charcoal fires. Water cools down the embers, while foam smothers the flames and prevents re-ignition.

– Tip: Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby. Ensure the barbeque is completely cooled before disposing of the ashes.

2. Gas Barbeques

– Fire Type: Class C (Butane or Propane)

– Extinguisher: Dry Powder Extinguishers are best for gas fires. Dry powder interrupts the chemical reaction of the fire, helping to put it out.

– Tip: Turn off the gas supply if it is safe to do so before using the extinguisher. Regularly check for gas leaks in hoses and connections.

3. Electric Barbeques

– Fire Type: Electrical Fires

– Extinguisher: CO2 Extinguishers are preferred for electrical fires as they do not leave any residue that could damage electrical components.

– Tip: Disconnect the power source if possible before using the extinguisher. Avoid using water or foam extinguishers to prevent electric shock.

Fire Safety for Bonfires

1. Wood Bonfires

– Fire Type: Class A (Wood and Paper)

– Extinguisher: Water or Foam Extinguishers are suitable for bonfires. Water can douse the flames, while foam can cover the burning material, cutting off the oxygen supply.

– Tip: Maintain a safe distance from structures and trees. Keep a water source like a hose or buckets of water readily available.

2. Rubbish or Debris Bonfires

– Fire Type: Class A (Mixed Combustibles)

– Extinguisher: Dry Powder Extinguishers can handle the varied materials in trash fires. They work by forming a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen.

– Tip: Avoid burning materials that can produce toxic fumes. Never leave the fire unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished before leaving the site.

General Safety Tips

– Placement: Always position your barbeque or bonfire in a clear, open area away from flammable materials.

– Wind Conditions: Be mindful of wind direction and strength. Avoid lighting fires in strong winds.

– Supervision: Never leave a barbeque or bonfire unattended. Assign someone to watch the fire at all times.

– Extinguisher Access: Ensure fire extinguishers are easily accessible and that everyone knows their location and how to use them.

– Emergency Numbers: Keep a phone nearby to call emergency services if a fire gets out of control.

Conclusion

Enjoying barbeques and bonfires is a cherished summer activity. Still, it’s vital to prioritise safety. By understanding the types of fires and the appropriate extinguishers, you can act quickly and effectively in an emergency. Equip your outdoor gatherings with the right fire safety tools, stay vigilant, and you can focus on having fun with peace of mind. 

Stay safe, and happy grilling!

McLaren hospitality suite fire

McLaren hospitality suite evacuated at Spanish GP after fire breaks out

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A fire broke out at the McLaren hospitality suite in the Barcelona paddock shortly before Practice Three of the Spanish GP. It is understood that a least two fire staff personnel were treated for smoke inhalation.

The McLaren team endured a scare at the Spanish Grand Prix on Saturday morning when what is believed to be an electrical fire broke out in their motorhome, causing it to be evacuated. The fire brigade was brought into the paddock to deal with it and it is understood several people were taken for treatment due to smoke inhalation.

“One McLaren team member has been taken to hospital as a precaution, and all McLaren personnel and guests are accounted for,” McLaren said later.

An hour before the final practice session began in Barcelona, with the team’s hospitality suite hosting guests, team members and drivers, the fire broke out in the unit that has two floors, reportedly above the kitchen, which is located on the ground floor.

The lights went out and everyone was ushered out, including the British driver Lando Norris and his Australian teammate, Oscar Piastri.

The fire brigade was summoned into the paddock, with personnel from other teams acting swiftly to clear the way for the emergency services. The firefighters entered the hub with hoses to deal with the fire, while ambulances also arrived, although it is believed there were no serious injuries.

Much of the drivers’ equipment is kept in the motorhome, including their race suits but the team were able to continue with the final practice session with both drivers taking to the track and the team running as planned.

Spain has suffered a fire in the paddock before when the Williams garage endured a serious blaze when fuel caught fire after Pastor Maldonado had won the race for the team here in 2012.