Module 8: FIRE EXTINGUISHMENT

The extinguishment of fire is based on an interruption of one or more of the

essential elements in the combustion process. With flaming combustion, the fire may be
extinguished by reducing temperature, eliminating fuel or oxygen, or by stopping the
uninhibited chemical chain reaction. If a fire is in the smoldering mode of combustion,
only three extinguishment options exist: reduction of temperature, elimination of fuel or
oxygen.
FIRE EXTINGUISHMENT THEORY
1. Extinguishment by TEMPERATURE REDUCTION
One of the most common methods of extinguishment is by cooling with water.
 The process of extinguishment by cooling is dependent on cooling the fuel to a
point where it does not product sufficient vapor to burn.
 If we look at fuel types and vapor production, we find that solid fuels and liquid
fuels with high flash points can be extinguished by cooling.
 Low flashpoint of liquids and flammable gases cannot be extinguished by
cooling with water as vapor production cannot be sufficiently reduced.
 Reduction of temperature is dependent on the application of an adequate flow of
water in proper form to establish a negative heat balance.
2. Extinguishment by FUEL REMOVAL
 In some cases, a fire is effectively extinguished by removing the fuel source.
 This may be accomplished y stopping the flow of liquid or gaseous fuel or by
removing solid fuel in the path of the fire.
 Another method of fuel removal is to allow the fire to burn until all fuel is
consumed (this should be combined with the process of confinement).
3. Extinguishment by OXYGEN DILUTION
 The method of extinguishment by oxygen dilution is the reduction of the
oxygen concentration in the fire area.
 This can be accomplished by introducing an inert gas into the fire or by
separating the oxygen from the fuel.
 This method of extinguishment will not work on self-oxidizing materials or on
certain metals as they care oxidized by carbon dioxide or nitrogen (the two
most common extinguishment agents)
4. Extinguishment by CHEMICAL FLAME INHIBITION
 Some extinguishment agents, such as dry chemicals and halons, interrupt the
flame producing chemical reaction, resulting in rapid extinguishment.
 This method of extinguishment is effective only on gas and liquid fuels as they
cannot burn in the smoldering mode of combustion.
 If extinguishment of smoldering materials is desired, the addition of cooling
capability is required.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Portable fire extinguishers are designed to attack a fire in its initial stage. The
selection of a suitable extinguisher is primarily influenced by the following factors:
 The size and rate of fire spread
 The class of fire (i.e. type of materials involved)
 The training and capabilities of the person using the extinguisher
NOTE: Always follow the specific instructions on a fire extinguisher and familiarize
yourself with these instructions prior to an emergency situation. Persons should be trained in
the use of extinguishers to optimize their effectiveness.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR USING A FIRE EXTINGUISHER

1. Raise the alarm, summon help and have someone call the fire service.
2. Keep your escape path at your back. Never allow the fire to get between you and the
escape path.
3. Select the correct extinguisher for the class of fire
4. Remember P.A.S.S.
… Pull the pin
… Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of flames
… Squeeze trigger while holding the extinguisher upright
… Sweep the extinguisher or nozzle from side covering the base of the fire.
5. Observe fire after initial extinguishment, it may rekindle
6. The contents of small extinguishers may last as little as eight (8) seconds and up to
60 seconds for larger extinguishers. The time to discharge an extinguisher depends
on the type and size of the extinguisher.
7.