CPVC in fire safety

 CPVC in fire safety

Steel / Iron pipes have been the preferred material for fire water distribution ever since fixed fire sprinkler piping systems were introduced and adopted in the late 19th century. After all, steel is strong, durable, and stands up well to intense heat.

Sprinkler systems offer fire detection and extinguishing functions in a single system. Sprinklers only extinguish areas which need to be extinguished. Sprinklers outside the source of the fire therefore remain closed. The extinguishing water released reduces smoke and dangerous substances.

CPVC's flash ignition temperature is significantly higher compared to other thermoplastics, at 900°F (482°C). This high ignition threshold means CPVC is less likely to catch fire, offering an added layer of safety in environments where exposure to high temperatures might occur.

Fire resistance in materials is not just about preventing ignition; it encompasses several critical aspects that determine how a material behaves in a fire scenario. CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) fire-resistant properties are assessed through various parameters, like ignition resistance, burning resistance, limiting oxygen index, flame spread resistance, smoke generation resistance, including thermal conductivity of CPVC.

NFPA 13 2022: Table 7.3.1.1 : Pipe or Tube Materials and Dimensions

Before we begin, let’s quickly review NFPA requirements:

·        The 2019 edition of NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems (3.1.1) permits listed metallic and nonmetallic materials for sprinkler pipe and tubing that meet or exceed various American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards.

·        It’s key that all pipes in fire sprinkler installations have been tested by a third-party safety organization for use in sprinkler systems and are “listed” as such. Metal pipes are listed to UL 852 and thermoplastic pipes are listed to UL 1821. Listed pipes are easily identified by the listing agency’s logo.

·        Some pipes could fail to meet ASTM standards but NFPA 13 permits their use as long as they are otherwise listed and installers mind any limitations in the listing (3.2.1.1 and 7.3.3.1). NFPA 13 requires manufacturers to include listing limitations in their installation instructions (7.3.2.1.2). Bottom line: sprinkler installers should carefully review a manufacturer’s instructions to account for this.

To choose a pipe material, you must determine which hazard level defines your property. UL (formerly Underwriter Laboratories) only lists pipes for hazard levels at which they can be counted upon to perform reliably.

Most offices, for instance, are “light hazard” and can use any of these pipes, but businesses that regularly stock more combustible materials have higher hazard levels and thus cannot install CPVC pipes in their sprinkler systems.

The chart below, also published in part one of our piping materials series, sums up important differences between the most popular options:

Source: National Institute of Standards and Technology

CPVC inherent immunity to corrosion has had a huge impact on the fire protection industry, creating sprinkler systems that typically remain in service for at least 50 years. CPVC fire sprinkler pipes have a slick, relatively impermeable surface that keeps bacterial contamination at bay and prevents deposits from accumulating and clogging pipes. CPVC pipes also naturally resist degradation from chemicals classified as acid, alkali, or inorganic material. All of these characteristics enable water to flow through CPVC pipes with little friction, earning them a C-factor of 150—a number that is equal to copper pipes’ smoothness.

CPVC's ability to resist burning is measured by its Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI), which at 60%, is exceptionally high. This means CPVC needs a much higher oxygen concentration to sustain combustion than is available in the Earth's atmosphere. Consequently, CPVC will self-extinguish once the flame source is removed, unlike materials like polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), which may continue to burn.

Extensive testing and approval from UL helped dispel initial fears that CPVC pipes would melt during a fire. In reality, CPVC must be forced to burn by putting the pipe in direct contact with fire, and it stops smoldering as soon as the flame is removed. Instead, a charring layer forms on the outside of the pipe, creating a thermal barrier that protects the inside and enables water to flow unheeded onto a fire.

CPVC fire sprinkler pipe also costs less than metal pipe, it’s easier to handle due its light weight, and installation is faster and safer—joints are chemically welded together by hand without flame or heavy equipment. Easier installation generally leads to labor-cost savings.

Flame Spread Resistance

The resistance of CPVC to flame spread is crucial in minimising damage during a fire. Certified under UL 94 for its flammability characteristics, CPVC achieves the highest vertical burn rating (V0), indicating its excellent capacity to prevent the spread of flames, thereby aiding in the control of fire within a building.

Smoke Generation Resistance

As per Euroclass (European Reaction to Fire Classification System) CPVC overall rating to combustion is B, S1, d0.

Basis above, the Concept of flammability is Ignition time, fire propagation and energy contribution of the product. This is represented by a measurement of heat released from the product and its potential contribution to propagation of a fire.

CPVC falls in B which denotes it’s an Inert material

In Smoke release category CPVC is rated under S1, which denotes limited smoke release.

In fire propagation through burning droplets CPVC falls under d0

CPVC Piping in High-Risk Environments

For industries such as semiconductor manufacturing or other facilities requiring cleanrooms, where the risk of fire remains a substantial concern, CPVC’s fire resistance property makes it a great pick. Its compliance with FM Approval 4910 for low combustibility and minimal contaminant release underscores its suitability for high-value environments where fire and smoke damage could lead to a substantial loss.

CPVC pipe is only listed for light-hazard occupancies since it does start to soften at temperatures slightly higher than 200°F. The upper service temperature limit of currently listed CPVC sprinkler pipe is 150°F (65.5°C) at 175 psi (12.1 bar).

CPVC pipe can be safely used in single- and multi-family housing, as well as commercial occupancies where fires develop slower with lower heat, such as offices, schools, fire stations, hotels, hospitals, libraries without large stockrooms, prisons, museums, and nursing homes. It can also be deployed in rooms rated “ordinary hazard” that are smaller than 400 square feet and within an otherwise light-hazard setting, such as kitchens in an institutional facility.

CPVC fire sprinkler pipe is not listed for use in exposed outdoor settings, as prolonged exposure to sunlight can impact its strength. It is also not recommended for commercial dry systems since it can become brittle at cold temperatures, creating a serious safety hazard if the energy of the pressurized gas is released suddenly due to a pipe rupture. But Tyco does carry a UL-listed, CPVC-based dry pipe system for residential occupancies that aren’t always climate-controlled, like vacation homes.

It’s also important to note that not all CPVC pipes and components are listed for the same exact use in fire sprinkler systems. It’s essential for contractors to confirm via the manufacturer that a product they want to install is not only listed for fire sprinklers but also for the specific application they intend.

TFI, FlameGuard, and FireLock CPVC pipe brands are all listed for sprinklers with a respectable ASTM 05 rating, but BlazeMaster CPVC has a different manufacturing process that gives it the higher ASTM 06 rating. This means it has 25 percent greater estimated long-term strength, or hydrostatic design pressure, and is slightly less likely to burst at higher temperatures.

Since CPVC is a limited combustible piping material, it must be carefully installed to prevent the pipe from failing during a fire. Protecting the pipe with a layer of gypsum wallboard or plywood is a viable option. Lay-in ceiling tiles clipped in place can be used as well. Don’t store CPVC outside, especially if it will be exposed to sunlight for a long time.

The relative fragility of CPVC pipe compared to metal is also a concern, with damage possible if materials are dropped, banged, or stepped on during installation. Mechanical stress caused by hanging methods or bending the pipe beyond the manufacturer’s recommended limitations can cause stress failures over time. NFPA 13 (A.7.3.2) also cautions installers to avoid construction materials that can degrade the performance of CPVC pipe, including materials used in the fabrication of sprinkler systems; additives to water supplies, cable, and wiring; and certain insecticides and fungicides.

But when proper precautions are taken, CPVC can be a safe, reliable, lower-cost alternative to metallic pipes for light-hazard occupancies—an option that limits costly corrosion issues.

C-PVC Pipe Standards

Organization	No.	Title
EN	1566	Plastics piping systems for soil and waste discharge (low and high temperature) within the building structure – Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) (PVC-C)
		Part 1: Specifications for pipes, fittings and the system
		Part 2: Guidance for the assessment of conformity (CEN/TS)
EN ISO	15877	Plastics piping systems for hot and cold water installations – Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) (PVC-C)
		1: General
		2: Pipes
		3: Fittings
		4: Fitness for purpose of the system
		5: Guidance for the assessment of conformity (CEN ISO/TS)
ISO	7675	Plastics piping systems for soil and waste discharge (low and high temperature) inside buildings – Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) (PVC-C)
IS	15225	Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) compounds used for pipes and fittings – Specification
IS	15778	Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) pipes for potable hot and cold water distribution supplies
DIN	8079	Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (PVC-C) pipes – Dimensions
DIN	8080	Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (PVC-C) pipes – General quality requirements and testing
ASTM	D1784	Standard Specification for Rigid PolyVinyl Chloride) (PVC) Compounds and Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Compounds
ASTM	D2846	Standard Specification for Chlorinated PolyVinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution Systems
ASTM	F1970	Standard Specification for Special Engineered Fittings, Appurtenances or Valves for use in PolyVinyl Chloride (PVC) or Chlorinated PolyVinyl Chloride (CPVC) Systems.
ASTM	F402	Standard Practice for Safe Handling of Solvent Cements, Primers, and Cleaners Used of Joining Thermoplastic Pipe and Fittings
ASTM	F437	Standard Specification for Threaded Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) CPVC Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
ASTM	F438	Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40
ASTM	F439	Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe, Fittings, Schedule 80.
ASTM	F441	Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40 and 80.
ASTM	F442	Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe,(SDR-PR).

CPVC is a good material for fire sprinkler systems because it's fire resistant, easy to install, and has other benefits: 

• Fire resistance

CPVC has a high flash ignition temperature of 900°F (482°C), which is higher than other thermoplastics. It's also a low flame spread material. When exposed to fire, CPVC forms a thermal barrier that restricts heat conduction. It needs three times more oxygen than the Earth's atmosphere to burn, so it doesn't easily spread flames. 

• Easy to install

CPVC pipes and fittings are lightweight and can be connected to conventional piping systems with basic hand tools and solvent cement. 

• Corrosion Resistance

CPVC is highly resistant to corrosion and won't rust or corrode over time. 

• Cost-effective

CPVC is generally less expensive than other materials used for fire sprinkler systems, such as copper or steel. 

• Durability

CPVC pipes and fittings are durable and can withstand high pressures and flow rates. 

CPVC pipes and fittings are approved for installation in non-industrial occupancies, such as hospitals, hotels, schools, and residences.

REF:

NFPA 13: sprinkler system design approaches, system installation, and component options to prevent fire deaths and property loss.
ASTM: Annual Book of ASTM Standards

Fire Safety Awareness plan

Over the past year, there have been deadly fires in various type of buildings, according to the latest Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India (ADSI) Report, released by the National Crimes Records Bureau (NCRB), as many as 7,435 people were killed in over 7,500 fire accidents in 2022.

As many as 101 people died in a total of 106 incidents of electrical short circuits across Uttar Pradesh in the year 2022, according to the latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). This included a total of 83 men and 18 women while five people were injured in similar incidents including four men and a woman. Women are more safer in all aspect in this India.

According to a survey, only 18 per cent of people reported living in houses or apartments compliant with fire safety norms, where checks are conducted annually. The survey collected responses from more than 22,000 citizens across 301 districts of India. 

• 19 per cent were unsure if their fire extinguishing systems worked
• 27 per cent admitted to never ensuring compliance
• 3 per cent had a fire extinguisher but lacked other safety measures
• 21 per cent had not considered fire safety
• 12 per cent didn't provide a clear response.

Regarding workplaces, out of over 11,000 respondents, only 27 per cent confirmed that their office, factory, or shop complied with fire safety standards and underwent regular annual checks. Additionally, 11 per cent mentioned having easy access to a fire extinguisher despite not being fully compliant with fire safety standards.

There are general fire safety precautions you should follow regardless of where you live. Taking time to review tips about the following fire safety issues can help you create a safer and more secure living environment for you, your friends, and family.

Escape Plans

Because fire is a risk in every building — whether you sleep, study, or work there — you should always have an escape plan. You may need to escape within a few minutes of a fire’s start, so your safe exit depends on immediate warning from smoke alarms and advance planning of escape routes.

Escape Plan Basics

• Include two ways out of every room in all escape plans
• Designate a location to meet outside the building
• Verify that smoke alarms are installed to provide early detection and warning so you’ll have enough time to execute your escape plan
• Make sure doors located in your path of travel can be opened from the inside under all lighting conditions
• Verify that doors located in your path of travel Do not require a key to open from the inside
• Take note of whether any disabled or elderly residents will require evacuation assistance
• Conduct a roll call to verify everyone has escaped the building
• Remain outside until notified by the fire department that it is safe to re-enter the building
• Practice, practice, practice your plan!

If your secondary escape route is a window…

• Make sure the window can be opened from the inside
• Assure the window is large enough for you to pass through the opening
• Verify the windowsill is low enough to allow you to crawl through the opening
• Make sure any security bars can be opened from the inside without the use of a key, and that you can open them under all lighting conditions
• Determine how you will escape if the window is above the first floor: will you purchase a rope ladder or other emergency escape device, or will you wait for the fire department to arrive and evacuate you?
• Make sure sloping terrain, the location of the window, or other factors will not prevent the window from being used as a secondary escape route

Electricity

Electrical distribution equipment poses serious fire safety threats that can even be fatal, especially when equipment is used incorrectly.

Electrical Safety Basics

• Protect electrical outlets with plastic safety covers if small children are present in your home
• Never operate electrical appliances around bathtubs, showers, or puddles of standing water
• Use ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection when working where water is near electricity, to protect against electric shock … This means you should use GFCIs in your kitchen, laundry room, bathroom, and outdoor locations
• Replace or repair frayed, loose, or otherwise damaged cords on all electronics
• Shut off the circuit and have it checked by an electrician if any switches feel warm
• Take note of any discolored switch plates, because discoloration could indicate that the electrical wiring behind the switch plate is overheating
• Remember: symptoms of potential wiring problems include household lights that dim or flicker, a TV picture that shrinks in size, frequent blown fuses, or circuit breakers that trip frequently
• Place lamps on level surfaces, away from flammable items, and use light bulbs that match the lamps’ recommended wattages
• Multi USB charger are not allowed on campus and should generally be avoided. They are prone to overheating and a multitude of these devices have been recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission over safety concerns.  

Extension Cords and Surge Suppressers

• Never use an extension cord as a replacement for permanent wiring
• Avoid running extension cords across doorways or under carpets
• Make sure power strips and surge suppressors are designed to handle the loads you will be using them for
• Connect power strips and surge protectors directly into a wall outlet. Do not connect multiple power strips or surge protectors together
• Avoid overloading circuits by plugging too many items into the same outlet
• Avoid the use of "cube taps" and other devices that allow the connection of multiple appliances into a single receptacle, and try to only plug one high-wattage item into each outlet

Halogen Lighting

• Avoid using halogen lamps whenever possible since they operate at much higher temperatures than normal light bulbs
• If you use halogen lamps, make sure the lamp is placed in a location where it cannot come into contact with drapes, clothing, or other combustible materials
• Keep halogen lamps and cords away from high-traffic areas and turn lamps off when leaving the room for an extended period of time

Cooking

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and household fire injuries. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of these fires, most of which start with the ignition of common household items including grease, paper, cabinets and curtains.

Cooking Safety Basics

• Never leave food unattended while it’s cooking on the stove, and closely monitor food cooking in the oven
• Maintain a clean and tidy cooking area that is free of items that catch on fire easily, such as cloth (curtains, potholders, towels, etc.), paper (cook books, food packaging, newspapers, etc.), and plastic (food packaging, storage containers, etc.)
• Roll up your shirtsleeves, or wear short, tight sleeves while cooking, so your clothes don’t accidentally hang onto stove burners and catch fire
• Always keep a potholder, oven mitt, and lid on hand
• Never use a wet potholder or oven mitt, in order to avoid scalding when the moisture in the cloth heats up
• Never plug microwaves into extension cords, and never microwave metal containers or tinfoil
• Keep children and pets away from cooking areas

In the Event of Stovetop Fire:

• If the fire is small and contained in a pan, put on an oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan
• Turn off the burner
• Don't remove the lid until it is completely cool
• Never pour water on a grease fire
• Never discharge a fire extinguisher onto a pan fire since it can splatter burning grease out of the pan and spread the fire

In the Event of Oven Fire:

• Turn off the heat
• Keep the oven door closed to prevent you and your clothes from catching fire
• Notify other occupants, and evacuate the building
• Call the fire department

In the Event of Microwave Fire:

• Keep the microwave door closed
• Unplug the microwave to remove the source of heat
• Notify other occupants, and evacuate the building
• Call the fire department

Smoking

The respiratory health hazards of smoking are well-publicized, but a lesser-known fact is that smoking materials are the leading cause of fire-related deaths in the U.S. The most commonly ignited items in these fatal fires are mattresses and bedding, upholstered furniture, and floor coverings.

Smoking Fire Safety

• Smoke outside, so you Do not put others at risk
• Never smoke in bed
• Never smoke in an area where oxygen tanks are being used
• Don’t smoke if you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine or other drugs that impair your ability to handle smoking materials correctly
• Use deep, wide ashtrays on a sturdy surface
• Make sure butts and ashes are extinguished by soaking them in water before discarding them
• Check under furniture cushions, and in other places people smoke, for butts and ashes that may have fallen out of sight
• Keep matches and lighters out of children's sight and reach
• Consider using fire-safe cigarettes, which are less likely to cause fires

Vaping and Electronic Cigarette

On April 9, 2012 UT Austin became a tobacoo-free campus and the ban extends to electronic cigarettes and vapes. Even though statistically there is a less of a chance of a fire than a traditional fire there is still a risk of a fire and/or explosion. 

Heating Safety

Heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires during the winter months, and the second leading cause of home fires annually. Heating equipment includes fireplaces, wood stoves, portable space heaters, and fixed space heaters. Nearly half of all deaths attributed to home heating equipment fires involve portable space heaters. Follow the below tips.

Heating Basics

• Have all heating equipment in your home inspected annually by a licensed professional
• Make sure all gas-fueled and wood-burning heating devices are vented to the exterior of the building
• Consider installing a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside of each bedroom if gas-fueled or wood-burning appliances are used in your home

Fireplaces and Wood-burning Stoves

• Have wood-burning stoves, fireplaces and chimneys inspected and cleaned on a periodic basis
• Use properly seasoned wood to reduce creosote build-up in fireplaces and stoves
• Protect fireplaces with a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room
• Allow ashes to cool before removing them from a fireplace or stove
• Dispose of ashes in a metal container

Space Heaters

• Maintain a 36 inch clearance between space heaters and combustible items
• Turn off portable space heaters every time you leave the room or go to sleep

Smoke Alarms

There are thousands of home fires in the U.S. every year, which result in roughly 3,000 deaths annually. Almost half of these deaths resulted from fires that were reported between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., the time period in which most people sleep. For this reason, providing smoke alarms in bedrooms may be the single most important step toward preventing fire-related casualties in residential buildings.

Smoke Alarm Basics

• Install at least one smoke alarm in every bedroom
• Install additional smoke alarms in hallways and common areas in the vicinity of bedrooms
• Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home
• Make sure the smoke alarms within your home are interconnected so the activation of one alarm will activate all alarms within the home
• Try to use smoke alarms powered by the building electrical system, which have a battery for backup power … However, if this type of smoke alarm is not available, battery-powered units are certainly better than not having smoke alarms

Smoke Alarm Installation

• Install smoke alarms on ceilings whenever possible
• Locate any smoke alarms installed on walls at least four inches below the ceiling
• Locate any smoke alarms installed on walls no more than 12 inches below the ceiling
• Do not install smoke alarms in the corners of rooms
• Do not install smoke alarms next to air-conditioning vents, heating vents, or ceiling fans, to ensure proper functioning of the unit
• Do not install smoke alarms in kitchens or bathrooms, to prevent false alarms

Smoke Alarm Maintenance

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month, by pressing the button on the alarm that allows you to test the unit
• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away
• Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If the alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years

Candles and Incense

Candles and incense are often used to create ambiance or help celebrate a special event, but they are open flames that pose a threat of fire. Most candle fires take place in the bedroom, and many occur when candles are left unattended. In addition, the winter holidays and New Year’s Eve are peak times for candle fires, so be sure to exercise caution when celebrating with open flames.

Candle and Incense Basics

• Remember: candles and burning incense are open flames, and the safest option is not to have them in your home
• Never leave candles or incense unattended, and always extinguish them before leaving the room or going to sleep
• Keep candles and incense away from curtains, clothing, books and newspapers, and other combustible items
• Keep candles and incense away from flammable liquids (i.e., alcohol, oil, etc.)
• Use durable candle holders, which are made of non-combustible materials, are big enough to collect wax drippings, and don’t tip over easily
• Trim candle wicks to one-quarter inch, and maintain this wick length throughout the candle’s life
• Extinguish taper and pillar candles when their wax melts down to within two inches of the holder, and extinguish votives and other encased candles before the last half inch of wax starts to melt
• Use flashlights during blackouts instead of candles, and always avoid carrying lit candles whenever possible

Laundry

Laundry equipment is often overlooked when addressing the issue of home fire safety. However, laundry appliances pose a serious fire risk because they involve electricity, and the combination of combustible clothing and extremely hot temperatures. The vast majority of laundry fires are caused by dryers that are not cleaned properly.

Dryer Safety Basics

• Have dryers installed and serviced by a competent professional
• Have gas-powered washers and dryers inspected periodically by a professional to ensure the gas line and its connection are intact
• Make sure that the dryer is plugged into an outlet that meets its electrical needs, so it doesn’t overload the outlet and trip circuit breakers or blow fuses
• Keep the area around the dryer clear of boxes, clothing, and other combustibles
• Turn the dryer off when leaving home.

Lint Filters

• Do not operate the dryer without a lint filter
• Clean lint filters before or after each use, and remove any lint from around the dryer drum
• Make sure the dryer exhausts into the exterior or into a listed water trap
• Inspect the area around the dryer for accumulations of lint, paying special attention to the area behind the dryer, and remove any lint you notice
• Inspect the flexible exhaust duct (if your dryer has one), and remove lint accumulations on a periodic basis

Gasoline

Each year gasoline causes several thousand household fires, many of which result in injury and even death. It is helpful to remember gasoline is a volatile liquid that is constantly releasing flammable vapors, which are heavier than air and accumulate at the lowest point in an area. If released inside a building, these vapors sink to floor level and spread out across the room, and if these vapors make contact with an ignition source a flash-fire will likely result.

Gasoline Safety Basics

• Keep gasoline out of children's reach and sight, and never allow children to handle gas
• Never use gasoline inside the home or as a cleaning agent
• Never use gasoline to wash mechanical parts
• Never use gasoline to start a fire in barbecue pits or cooking grills
• Never use gasoline as a replacement for kerosene or diesel
• Do not use or store gasoline near potential ignition sources, including gas-fired water heaters that contain a pilot flame
• Follow all manufacturers’ instructions when using electronics (including all devices with batteries or connections to electrical outlets) near gasoline
• Clean up spills immediately and discard clean-up materials properly

In the Event of Gasoline Fire

• Leave the area immediately, and call the fire department
• Do not attempt to extinguish the fire
• Do not attempt to stop the flow of gasoline

Gasoline Storage

• Store gasoline outside in a garage or shed
• Never store gasoline in glass, or in plastic milk jugs and other non-reusable plastic containers
• Store gasoline in a tightly closed metal or plastic container designed, manufactured, and approved specifically for gasoline storage
• Store only the amount of gasoline necessary to power equipment and machinery

Fueling and Handling Gasoline

• Do not smoke while handling gasoline
• Use caution when fueling machinery and automobile equipment
• Never fuel machinery or equipment indoors, and always let it cool before refueling
• Place portable gasoline containers on the ground before filling, and only fill them outdoors
• Never fill portable containers inside a vehicle or in the bed of a pick-up truck, to prevent a static charge from developing
• Do not get in and out of automobiles while fueling … Although rare, this movement creates an electrical charge on your body that could spark a fire, especially during dry weather conditions

Propane

Over 1,000 home fires are caused by liquid propane annually, and these fires cause hundreds of injuries and deaths. Propane is a flammable gas that is converted to a liquid before being stored within a cylinder or tank. When released from its container, propane converts back to a gas and expands significantly; if this expanding gas comes in contact with an ignition source an explosion can result. When first released, the gas is cold and heavier than the surrounding air, which creates a “cloud” of heavy gas that will stay close to the ground and collect in low areas.

Propane Safety Basics

• Never store or use propane gas cylinders larger than one pound inside your home
• Never store or operate a propane-powered gas grill indoors
• Always handle propane-powered equipment cautiously, according to the manufacturers’ instructions
• Have propane gas equipment inspected by a professional for leaks and faulty parts on a regular basis
• Follow the manufacturers’ instructions carefully when lighting pilots
• Leave the area immediately and call the fire department from outside the home if you smell a strong odor of gas

These fire safety statistics and tips refer to fact sheets on the National Fire Protection Association Web site, the authoritative resource for fire prevention information online, Or you can connect us for free consultation.

How do we improve awareness of fire safety?

To improve awareness of fire safety, the Community Fire Safety system must be the central approach. This must be done through its daily implementation not only by governments and Fire Rescue Services, but also by national and Indian fire safety campaigns. For Community Fire Safety to be successful, a system must be implemented to measure its effectiveness. Moreover, more scientific research must be conducted into how the fire-safe behaviour of people can be positively influenced.