Fire

Key Notes:

Definition of Fire:

Fire is a chemical reaction called combustion. It occurs when a substance combines with oxygen and releases heat and light.

Elements of Fire:

• Fuel: A material that can burn (e.g., wood, paper).
• Oxygen: Essential for the fire to continue burning.
• Heat: A source of heat (like a match or lighter) is needed to start the fire.

Types of Fires:

• Natural fires: Caused by natural events such as lightning.

• Human-made fires: Started intentionally or accidentally by humans (e.g., campfires, cooking).

Uses of Fire:

• Cooking food.

• Providing warmth (in fireplaces or campsites).

• Generating light before electric lights were common.
• Industrial use (in factories or for metalwork).

Dangers of Fire:

• Fire can spread quickly and cause destruction.
• It produces smoke and gases that can be harmful to breathe.
• Uncontrolled fire (wildfires or house fires) can damage property and harm people.

Fire Safety:

• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Keep flammable materials (paper, fabrics) away from open flames.
• Use fire extinguishers to control small fires.
• Have smoke alarms and fire escape plans in homes.

Firefighting:

• Firefighters use water, foam, or other chemicals to put out fires.
• Different types of fires require different firefighting methods (e.g., water for wood fires, foam for oil fires).

The Fire Triangle:

The three elements that a fire needs to start and continue burning: heat, fuel, and oxygen. Removing one element can stop the fire.