In March 2020, 4,089 fires were reported in the state of São Paulo. During the same period last year, there were 2,560 cases. The increase of 60% in the number of residential fires is due in particular to the greater number of people at home as a result of coronavirus-related isolation measures.
To reverse the problem, the former commander of the São Paulo Fire Department, civil and safety engineer Col. Cássio Armani, lists five points of attention to prevent fires in homes:
Households generally have cleaning supplies that are flammable, such as alcohol, nail polish remover, aerosol degreasers, paint thinner, etc. In addition, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become common for people to use 70° alcohol gel for sanitizing purposes. What many people don’t know is that this type of alcohol has a higher concentration (70%) than the liquid alcohol found in supermarkets (46%). Therefore, when hand sanitizer burns, it sustains a flame and can cause very serious accidents. Another important point is that alcohol produces a colorless flame, meaning the smoke is not visible. As a result, one might think the alcohol has gone out, but in fact, it may still be burning. What must not be forgotten is that to sustain a flame, in addition to fuel and air (oxygen), a heat source is required. When cooking, for example, we handle matches or stand near the flame of a gas stove. Accidents involving alcohol can result in burns so severe that a person may lose their life or be left with extensive scarring.
Inadequate electrical installations
Electrical energy is essential for lighting and the operation of various household appliances. It turns out that in buildings, electrical installations are designed for a specific number of lamps, showers, air conditioning units, and other utility equipment. Users often decide to make adaptations for a larger quantity of electrical equipment, which can lead to overheating of the electrical wiring, plugs, or outlets, causing fires. This is very common when so-called “T” adapters or splitters are used, through which multiple appliances are plugged in at the same time.
Lack of attention while cooking
During lunch and dinner times, there is an increase in the number of fires in the State of São Paulo due to a lack of attention to pots, pans, or ovens left on. The oil itself used in certain foods can overheat, producing high flames that destroy the kitchen and, if left unchecked, can destroy an apartment or a house. Another type of accident that can happen is someone throwing water onto a pan with burning oil. Water does not mix with oil, and the reaction when it is thrown onto burning oil or grease is violent, since the water boils instantly and the oil is splattered onto the person. The most appropriate action is to use a large lid over the pan or cover it with a well-wrung damp dish towel.
Inadequate cooking gas installations
Building fuel gas installations, whether liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or natural gas, require certain precautions ranging from the design, well-executed installation, and required maintenance to the correct use of appliances. Cylinders are subject to strict regulations, but accidents occur due to gas leaks in confined spaces. Therefore, gas containers cannot be installed in closed locations, because in the event of a leak there is no adequate ventilation. Some simple precautions can prevent serious accidents. Close the shut-off valve if the house or apartment will be closed for a long period, do not let the flexible hose touch stoves or ovens, and always check that all stove valves are tightly closed. System maintenance is also essential, so it is necessary for a qualified professional to carry out periodic inspections. In the event of a leak, if possible close the valve, evacuate people from the vicinity, open windows and doors, do not turn electrical switches on or off, and call the Fire Department (193). In case of fire, turn off the main electricity breaker only if it is located outside the residence, open doors and windows; if possible, close the gas valve, move people away from the area, do not operate electrical switches, and call the Fire Department.
Childcare
Due to the pandemic, children are staying home longer and looking for games to cope with social isolation. Parental supervision is important so that matches, lighters, and candles are not within their reach, as these can be misused and cause a fire.
SOURCE:
FIRE MAGAZINE
