Basic fire safety equipment that you must keep in your home or office
In a city like Dhaka, where high population density and unplanned urbanization are the norms, fire hazards are a constant threat. With many buildings lacking proper fire safety measures, it is essential for residents to be aware of basic fire hazard safety tips to protect themselves and their loved ones. When it comes to fire safety in the home or office space, having the right equipment on hand can make all the difference in preventing a small flame from turning into a raging inferno. Here are some common items to keep at home or in your office space for basic fire safety.
Smoke detectors: Smoke detectors are one of the most important tools in fire safety. These devices can detect smoke and alert you to the presence of a fire before it becomes too large to handle. It is recommended to have smoke detectors in every bedroom, in hallways outside of bedrooms, and on each level of the home. Make sure to test the smoke detectors regularly and replace the batteries at least once a year.
Fire extinguishers: Fire extinguishers can be used to put out small fires before they become too big to handle. It's important to have the right type of fire extinguisher for the type of fire you're dealing with. There are four classes of fire extinguishers: A, B, C, and D. Class A extinguishers are for fires involving ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, and cloth. Class B extinguishers are for fires involving flammable liquids such as gasoline and oil. Class C extinguishers are for fires involving electrical equipment. Class D extinguishers are for fires involving flammable metals such as magnesium and titanium. It's also a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, where most home fires start.
Fire blankets: Fire blankets can be used to smother small fires or to wrap around a person whose clothing is on fire. They are made of fire-resistant materials and can be easily stored in a kitchen drawer or cabinet. It's important to know how to use a fire blanket properly in case of an emergency.
Escape ladder: In case of a fire, it's important to have a plan for getting out of the house quickly and safely. If you live in a multi-story home, consider investing in an escape ladder that can be stored under a bed or in a closet. These ladders can be attached to a window and used to safely climb down to the ground.
Sprinkler system: Installing a sprinkler system in your home can be an effective way to prevent fires from spreading. These systems automatically detect and extinguish fires using water, which can help contain the fire until firefighters arrive. While sprinkler systems can be expensive to install, they can save lives and property in the event of a fire.
Carbon monoxide detector: Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can be deadly in high concentrations. Carbon monoxide detectors can detect the presence of this gas and alert you to the danger. It's recommended to have at least one carbon monoxide detector on each level of the home, especially near bedrooms.
Flame retardant spray: Flame retardant sprays can be used to treat fabrics, such as curtains and furniture, to make them more fire-resistant. While these sprays can't prevent fires from starting, they can slow down the spread of flames, giving you more time to escape.