9.9 Survival

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9.9.6 Putting out Fire

 

- Fire needs three essential elements to exist and stay "alive." This is often called the Fire Triangle.

  1. Oxygen – Air provides the oxygen that fuels the combustion process.
  2. Flammable Material – Also called fuel, this includes wood, paper, dry leaves, or other burnable materials.
  3. Heat – The ignition source that starts the fire and keeps it burning.

If any one of these elements is removed, the fire will go out. For example:

  • Removing oxygen ➔ smothering with dirt or sand.
  • Removing fuel ➔ letting it burn out naturally.
  • Reducing heat ➔ pouring water to cool it.

What to Do if You Spot a Fire?

Step 1:  Stay Calm. Fires spread quickly, but panicking won’t help. Take a deep breath and focus on what you need to do.

Step 2: Assess the Situation.

Small fire? Big fire?
If it’s small (like a campfire or a trash fire), you might be able to control it safely.
 If it’s big (like a forest fire or house fire), it’s too dangerous to handle alone.

 

Near flammable materials? Far from flammable materials?
Be careful, they are dangerous. Are there people nearby?

Step 3: Take Action

Small fire Big fire
  • Use water, dirt, or sand to smother the flames.
  • Move flammable objects away from the fire to stop it from spreading.
  • Don’t try to fight it yourself. It’s safer to leave it to professionals.
  • Warn others nearby so they can get to safety.

Step 4: Call for Help

  • Find an adult or authority figure and let them know immediately.
  • Call emergency services if possible (know the number for your area, like 112 or 911).
    • Tell them:
      • Where the fire is.
      • What is burning (grass, building, etc.).
      • How big it looks.

Step 5: Stay Safe

  • Keep your distance from the fire. Even small fires can grow quickly.
  • Watch for wind direction. Smoke and flames can spread fast if the wind picks up.
  • Never block escape routes while watching or helping others.
  • Learn how to prevent fires in the future, like:
    • Never leaving campfires unattended.
    • Avoiding lighting fires in dry, windy weather.
    • Disposing of matches and cigarettes safely.

 

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