COMMON CAUSES OF FIRE
The Misuse of Electricity
One of the principal causes of fire is the neglect and misuse of
electrical wiring, fittings, and equipment. The overheating of
circuits, poorly-made wiring connections, the use of unauthorised
electrical apparatus and heaters, multi-point adaptors and use of
extension leads are all possible hazards that frequently trigger an
outbreak of fire. To avoid these hazards, all electrical circuits and
equipment should be inspected and tested on a regular basis.
Any identified faults of fittings should be repaired by a qualified
electrician. Electrical equipment should be switched off when not
in use and especially at the end of a day’s work.
Smoking
Smoking and the careless disposal of cigarettes and smoking
materials are still a major cause of fire. In the home, smoking in
bed or on foam-filled furniture can easily lead to a smouldering and deadly fire producing large quantities of toxic smoke. In commercial
premises – especially in storage areas – a ‘No Smoking’
policy is a positive safeguard providing that sites are designated
for employees who wish to smoke, ideally in the open air.
Above The aftermath of a carelessly disposed cigarette end that fell unnoticed
into a pile of magazines on a lounge table. Fortunately, this outbreak was quickly
discovered and extinguished following the prompt arrival of firefighters.
(Both images by courtesy of London Fire Brigade)
Above This fire started when multiple hi-fi equipment was plugged into a single
socket causing progressive overheating of the circuit wiring and subsequent
ignition of the cabling, the wooden skirting board and some considerable
damage to the other contents of the room
Rubbish and Waste Materials
Accumulated rubbish and waste materials can readily provide the
source for a fire starting. All waste material should be removed
from a premises on a regular basis and placed in a suitable metal
container sited in a safe position outside a building. This should
be emptied and the contents frequently removed. Rubbish should
not be burned on bonfires which can easily get out of control with
the risk of fire spread to adjacent buildings.
Cooking
Deep fat fryers can be a particular hazard if left unattended.
Combustible materials including cloths and towels should be kept
well clear of burners, ovens and other sources of heat.
Heating Appliances
Portable heaters can be hazardous, especially when placed too close
to combustibles and furniture. Convector heaters are generally
safer that radiant fires. Heaters should be regularly serviced and
properly guarded and secured to prevent them being tipped over.
Combustible Materials
Especially relevant in the workplace is the use and storage of
solvents, glues, flammable liquids, gases, and packing materials.
The amounts inside a premises at any one time should be kept to a
minimum and the bulk supply storage place should be secure and
sited outside of the main building.
Arson and Malicious Fire Setting
Deliberate fire setting is becoming a growing problem in many
countries. These incidents can be minimised by proper security and
vigilance especially at commercial and other premises. Accumulations of rubbish and waste materials can attract arsonists. 