Fire Fighting At Sea - Part 2: Basic Fire Fighting

Summary

This video script provides essential firefighting techniques and safety protocols for shipboard emergencies. It covers the four key elements of fire—fuel, heat, oxygen, and chemical reaction—and outlines the basic rules for firefighting, including the use of various extinguishers such as water, foam, CO2, and dry powder. The script emphasizes the importance of proper fire alarm systems, the correct use of extinguishing equipment, and personal protective measures. It also addresses fire drills, safe evacuation procedures, and the importance of teamwork, ensuring safety when facing shipboard fires. Key techniques such as cooling, smothering, and removing fuel are highlighted.

Takeaways

• 😀 Firefighting relies on removing one or more of the four key elements: fuel, heat, oxygen, and the chemical reaction.
• 😀 The basic firefighting rules can be remembered with the acronym FIRE: Find it, Isolate it, Report it, Extinguish it or Escape.
• 😀 Portable fire extinguishers come in various types, and using the correct one for the fire type is crucial for safety.
• 😀 Water extinguishers are effective for fires involving carbonaceous materials like wood, paper, and cloth.
• 😀 Foam extinguishers are suitable for flammable liquid fires; they should be applied to a vertical surface, not directly onto the liquid.
• 😀 Carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers are ideal for electrical fires but must be used cautiously in confined spaces.
• 😀 Dry powder extinguishers act as flame inhibitors and are typically used on liquid or gaseous fires.
• 😀 Fire blankets are particularly useful for smothering fires in containers like pans or waste bins.
• 😀 In the event of a fire, always raise the alarm before attempting to extinguish the fire, and only do so if it's safe.
• 😀 Always inspect fire extinguishers and other firefighting equipment regularly, and follow proper maintenance schedules to ensure readiness.
• 😀 Fixed firefighting systems like CO2 or foam installations should be used as a last resort and only after evacuating the affected area.

Q & A

What are the four main elements of a fire?

The four main elements of a fire are fuel, heat, oxygen, and the chemical reaction between the flammable material and oxygen.

What does the 'F' in the basic firefighting acronym 'FIRE' stand for?

The 'F' stands for 'Find it,' meaning identifying the location of the fire.

Why is it important to use the right type of fire extinguisher?

Using the right type of fire extinguisher is crucial because using the wrong one could be ineffective or dangerous, potentially making the fire worse or putting your life at risk.

What types of fires are water extinguishers best used for?

Water extinguishers are best used for fires involving carbonaceous materials, such as wood, paper, rubber, and certain plastics.

How does a foam extinguisher work, and what type of fire is it most suitable for?

A foam extinguisher works by covering the burning surface with foam, which cools the material and prevents further combustion. It is most suitable for flammable liquid fires.

What is the primary function of a CO2 extinguisher?

The primary function of a CO2 extinguisher is to deprive the fire of oxygen, thus extinguishing it. It is commonly used for electrical fires.

What safety consideration should be taken when using CO2 extinguishers in confined spaces?

CO2 extinguishers should be used with extreme caution in confined spaces because they remove oxygen from the air, which can be dangerous to breathe.

What does the 'PASS' principle stand for in firefighting?

The 'PASS' principle stands for: P - Pull the pin, A - Aim the nozzle, S - Squeeze the handle, and S - Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

What should you do if you discover a fire on a ship?

If you discover a fire on a ship, you must raise the alarm immediately. Then, assess the situation to determine if it is safe to attempt to extinguish the fire on your own using a portable extinguisher.

What is the correct procedure for using fire hoses on board a ship?

When using fire hoses on a ship, the nozzle should be pointed down and away from the fire initially, then adjusted to a fine spray to cool the fire. Always stand with an exit route behind you and follow all firefighting team protocols.