As fall arrives, dry conditions can quickly turn a small spark into a major disaster. With cooler weather comes an increased reliance on heaters and open flames in homes, heightening the risk of fires. We often see fire-related stories in the news as the seasons change. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to double-check even extinguished fires and explore how to prevent tiny sparks from turning into large-scale blazes.
Autumn Winds Fan the Flames
Dry conditions in the mountains, combined with lower temperatures and humidity, create an environment where plants and trees become parched, making it easier for fires to ignite and spread. Strong autumn winds can carry embers to new locations, exacerbating the situation. These environmental factors make fall and winter particularly prone to fires compared to other seasons.
Static Electricity Can Ignite Fires
Did you know that static electricity increases in dry weather and can also spark fires? Static electricity occurs when charges remain stationary instead of flowing, often generated through friction.
No Fire-Starting Materials While Hiking
When hiking, it is crucial to avoid matches, lighters, or other fire-starting materials. To prevent accidental ignitions, be cautious with cigarettes in or near forested areas. If you spot a forest fire, evacuate immediately, call 911, and move quickly to lower ground.
Check Your Surroundings Before Using Heating Devices
During autumn and winter, fires caused by heating devices are a leading cause of residential incidents. According to the South Korea National Fire Agency, out of 16,000 fires caused by ignition sources in 2022, over 2,400 were due to seasonal heating equipment. Before using heaters at home, always check for flammable materials nearby. Highly flammable substances can ignite even at low temperatures, so extra caution is essential.
Check Power Strip Capacity
Don’t neglect outlet management at home. It’s best to use dedicated outlets rather than power strips for appliances like refrigerators, heaters, and TVs. Since power strips have maximum power capacities, using ones with overload protection is advisable. Regularly clean outlet openings to prevent dust buildup, and unplug any heating devices that are not in use.
Inspect Electric Blanket Heating Wires
If you’re bringing out your heating devices again after a long spring and summer, check for broken heating wires and ensure there is no dust accumulation on electrical connections. A broken heating wire can easily lead to a fire, and dust on the wires can cause electrical shorts. This is particularly relevant for electric blankets or heated mats, often folded and stored away during warmer months. Periodically check the condition of the heating wires, insulation, and plugs before use.
Be Cautious While Camping
As the weather cools, more people are heading out for camping trips. It’s important to stay vigilant to prevent fires. When starting a fire, always use a fire pit to prevent embers from spreading to dry leaves, and only use it in designated areas. When extinguishing the fire, ensure that all embers are doused with sand or water to prevent re-ignition. Avoid leaving fires unattended, and keep flammable products, such as insect repellent or sprays, at a safe distance. Familiarize yourself with the location of fire extinguishers at the campsite.
What to Do If Initial Fire Suppression Fails
Prevention is vital regarding fires, and successful initial suppression should occur within about five minutes of ignition. However, if initial suppression fails, quickly alert those nearby and evacuate safely. Activate fire alarms if available, or shout loudly to inform others. Use the stairs to exit, staying low to avoid smoke. It’s best to move to a lower floor, but if the path is blocked by fire, head to the roof instead. Cover your face with a wet cloth, and remember to check the temperature of the doorknob before opening any doors.
If You Encounter Someone Who Has Suffocated
If you find yourself in an area where smoke has not yet reached you, do not attempt to evacuate recklessly, as this increases the risk of smoke inhalation. If you discover someone who has suffocated in a confined space, prioritize moving them safely to an area with fresh air. After relocating the person, check their breathing and pulse; if necessary, administer CPR.
What to Do If You Suffer a Burn
Actions for treating burn victims depend on the degree and extent of heat exposure. For minor burns on localized areas, immerse the affected area in cool running water for 10 to 15 minutes to dissipate the heat. Afterward, cover the wound with a sterile dressing or gauze to prevent infection. It’s important to avoid using ice packs or very cold cloths, as extreme cold can worsen the injury. Always ensure that the water used is cool, not icy.
Most Commented