Unit 6 Fire

CERT Unit 6: Fire Safety and Utility Controls - Complete Study Guide

UNIT OVERVIEW & CERT PRIORITIES

CERT Role in Fire Safety

  • Primary Goal: Support fire safety by extinguishing small fires before they become major fires

  • Key Rule: If you cannot put out a fire in 5 seconds, it's too big to handle - evacuate immediately

  • Four Main Actions:

    1. Extinguish small fires before they become major

    2. Prevent additional fires by removing fuel sources

    3. Shut off utilities when necessary and safe

    4. Assist with evacuations when needed

CERT Priorities (Always Remember)

  1. Rescuer safety is ALWAYS #1 priority

  2. Always use buddy system - never fight fires alone

  3. Required safety equipment: gloves, helmet, goggles, N95 mask, sturdy shoes/boots

  4. Goal: Do the greatest good for the greatest number

FIRE CHEMISTRY - THE FUNDAMENTALS

The Fire Triangle (3 Elements Required)

  1. HEAT - Elevates material temperature to ignition point

  2. FUEL - Can be solid, liquid, or gas (determines extinguishment method)

  3. OXYGEN - Most fires need at least 20% oxygen atmosphere

Chemical Process: These three elements create an exothermic reaction = FIRE

Classes of Fire (Know Each Class & Examples)

CLASS A FIRES: Ordinary combustibles

  • Examples: paper, cloth, wood, rubber, many plastics

  • Extinguishing agents: Water, foam, dry chemical

  • Method: Removes heat, removes air and heat, breaks chain reaction

CLASS B FIRES: Flammable liquids

  • Examples: oils, gasoline, charcoal lighter fluid, kerosene

  • Key point: Only the VAPOR burns when ignited

  • Extinguishing agents: Foam, CO2, dry chemical

  • Method: Removes air, breaks chain reaction

CLASS C FIRES: Energized electrical equipment

  • Examples: wires, motors, electrical equipment

  • Important: When electricity is turned off, becomes Class A fire

  • Extinguishing agents: CO2, dry chemical (NEVER water)

  • Method: Removes air, breaks chain reaction

CLASS D FIRES: Combustible metals

  • Examples: aluminum, magnesium, titanium

  • Extinguishing agents: Special agents

  • Method: Usually removes air

CLASS K FIRES: Cooking oils

  • Examples: vegetable oils, animal oils, fats

  • Location: Commercial kitchens and cafeterias

  • Extinguishing agents: Chemical agents

  • Method: Creates soapy foam to hold vapors and extinguish

FIRE SIZE-UP - 9-STEP PROCESS

Step 1: Gather Facts

Time Considerations:

  • Does time of day/week affect suppression efforts?

Weather Factors:

  • Weather conditions affecting safety

  • Weather impact on situation

Construction Type:

  • What structures are involved?

  • What construction materials?

Occupancy:

  • Are structures occupied? How many people?

  • Special considerations: children, elderly, pets, people with disabilities

Hazards:

  • Hazardous materials present?

  • Other hazard types?

Step 2: Assess and Communicate Damage

  • Survey ALL sides of scene

  • Determine if danger exceeds CERT capability

  • Communicate facts and damage assessment

Step 3: Consider Possibilities

Life Hazards: Potentially life-threatening situations Path of Fire: Areas that may be jeopardized Additional Damage: High potential for more disaster activity

Step 4: Assess Your Situation

  • What equipment is available?

  • What other resources available?

  • Can CERT volunteers safely attempt suppression?

Step 5: Establish Priorities

  • Any more pressing needs?

Step 6: Make Decisions

  • Where will resources do most good with adequate safety margin?

Step 7: Develop Plan of Action

  • Determine personnel and resource usage

Step 8: Take Action

  • Put plan into effect

Step 9: Evaluate Progress

  • Continuous process - may require returning to Step 1

  • Identify changes in scope, safety risks, resource availability

  • Adjust strategies as required

FIREFIGHTING RESOURCES

Common Resources

  • Local fire departments

  • Fire alarm systems

  • Sprinkler systems

  • Portable fire extinguishers

  • Interior wet standpipes (NOT for CERT use)

Fire Extinguisher Types

Mo

1. WATER EXTINGUISHERS

  • Capacity: 2.5 gallons standard

  • Range: 30-40 feet

  • Pressure: 110 psi

  • Caution: Don't scatter lightweight materials and spread fire

2. DRY CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHERS

  • Regular dry chemical: Sodium bicarbonate base (Class B & C)

  • Multipurpose dry chemical: Monoammonium phosphate base (Class A, B & C)

  • Capacity: 10-20 seconds discharge time

  • Range: 8-12 feet

  • Pressure: 175-250 psi

  • Most common extinguisher

3. CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2)

  • Becoming less common but still used

4. SPECIALIZED EXTINGUISHERS

  • For specific applications

Extinguisher Rating System

  • Class A: Rated 1A to 40A (higher number = more extinguishing agent)

  • Class B: Rated 1B to 640B

  • Class C, D, K: No number rating

  • Class C: "C" indicates safe for electrical fires

  • Class D: Labeled for specific metals

  • Class K: Alkaline mixture creates soapy foam

DECIDING TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHER - 5 CRITICAL QUESTIONS

Ask yourself these questions:

  1. Are there TWO ways to exit quickly and safely?

  2. Do I have the RIGHT TYPE of extinguisher?

  3. Is the extinguisher LARGE ENOUGH for the fire?

  4. Is the area FREE from other dangers (hazmat, falling debris)?

  5. Am I EXPERIENCED/TRAINED in extinguisher use?

If ANY answer is "NO":

  • Leave building immediately

  • Activate fire alarm if safe

  • Shut all doors while leaving (slows fire spread)

  • Contact fire department

If ALL answers are "YES":

  • May attempt to extinguish

  • Remember: 5-second rule still applies

  • If you feel unable, leave immediately

After Extinguishing

OVERHAUL PROCESS: Search for hidden fire/sparks to prevent rekindling

  • Remember: "Cool, Soak, and Separate"

  • Contact fire department even for small fires

  • Insurance/management may want incident report

P.A.S.S. TECHNIQUE

P - PULL pin (Test extinguisher after pulling) A - AIM at base of fire (extinguish fuel, not flames) S - SQUEEZE handle S - SWEEP back and forth

Important:

  • Test extinguisher before approaching fire

  • Aim at BASE of fire, not flames

  • Depleted extinguishers should be laid on side until recharged

FIRE SUPPRESSION SAFETY RULES

DO's

  • Use safety equipment always: helmet, goggles, dust mask, leather gloves, sturdy shoes

  • Work with buddy always - never fight fire alone

  • Have backup team when possible

  • Always have TWO exit routes

  • Check doors:

    • Don't open if air sucked under or smoke seeping out top

    • Feel doors with back of hand from bottom up

    • If hot, don't enter (fire behind door)

  • Confine fire by closing doors

  • Stay low (smoke inhalation = leading cause of fire deaths)

  • Maintain safe distance (know extinguisher range)

  • Never turn back on fire when backing out

  • Overhaul to ensure complete extinguishment

DON'Ts

  • Don't get too close (if you feel heat, too close)

  • Don't fight fire alone

  • Don't try to suppress large fires

  • Don't enter smoke-filled areas

PROPER FIRE SUPPRESSION PROCEDURES (6 STEPS)

Team Roles

  • Team Member 1: Operates extinguisher

  • Team Member 2: Watches for hazards, ensures safety

6-Step Process

  1. Assume ready position: Pin pulled, aimed, upright, 20-25 feet from fire

  2. Ready communication: TM1 says "Ready," TM2 repeats "Ready"

  3. Going in communication: TM1 says "Going in," TM2 repeats and places hand on TM1's shoulder

  4. Approach together: TM1 watches fire, TM2 stays close with hand on shoulder

  5. Backing out communication: TM1 says "Backing out," TM2 repeats

  6. Exit together: TM2 guides TM1 out while TM1 faces fire, watching for hazards

UTILITY HAZARDS

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Common Problems:

  • "Electrical octopus" (tangled cords)

  • Overloaded outlets

  • Power strips plugged into power strips

  • Cords under carpets

  • Broken/frayed cords

  • Malfunctioning appliances

Emergency Response:

  • Know circuit breaker/fuse locations

  • Post shutoff instructions by breaker box

  • Shutoff procedure: Individual breakers/fuses first, THEN main switch

  • Turn-on procedure: Main switch first, THEN individual breakers/fuses one at a time

  • NEVER enter flooded basement or standing water to shut off electricity

  • Contact licensed electrician/utility company for emergencies

NATURAL GAS HAZARDS

Two Types of Hazards:

  1. Asphyxiant: Displaces oxygen in body

  2. Flammable: Can readily ignite

Key Properties:

  • Lighter than air

  • Often can't feel gas during leak

  • Need gas detectors on every level (like smoke alarms)

  • Detector locations: Near furnace, hot water tank, gas appliances

  • Test monthly

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)

  • Deadly, colorless, odorless, poisonous

  • Lighter than air

  • Produced by incomplete burning of fuels

  • Sources: Malfunctioning fuel-burning appliances, portable generators, fireplaces, charcoal in enclosed areas

Prevention:

  • Install CO detectors near all sleeping areas

  • Additional detectors on every level and in every bedroom

  • Don't place within 15 feet of heating/cooking appliances

  • Avoid humid areas like bathrooms

  • Test monthly

GAS SHUTOFF PROCEDURES

General Rules:

  • Locate and label all gas shutoff valves

  • Know proper shutoff procedures

  • Have non-sparking tools

  • If unsure, DON'T attempt - call gas company

Gas Meter Inside Home:

  • Only shut off when instructed by authorities

  • If you smell gas or see dials showing flow with appliances off: EVACUATE and call 911

  • Don't attempt shutoff if gas may be in air

Gas Meter Outside Home:

  • Turn off if you smell gas or see unexplained flow

  • Turn off if there's unextinguishable fire (call 911 first, turn off only if safe)

  • Never enter basement of burning structure

  • Use flashlight, not candlelight

Important:

  • Only trained technician can restore gas service

  • Some meters have automatic earthquake shutoffs

  • Improper restoration can cause indoor gas leaks

FLAMMABLE LIQUID HAZARDS

L.I.E.S. Storage Method:

  • Limit quantities

  • Isolate from ignition sources

  • Eliminate vapors

  • Separate incompatible materials

Fire suppression: Use only Class B rated extinguishers

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

Definition

Materials are hazardous if they:

  • Corrode other materials

  • Explode or easily ignite

  • React strongly with water

  • Are unstable when exposed to heat/shock

  • Are toxic through absorption, inhalation, injection, or ingestion

Types Include

  • Explosives

  • Flammable gases and liquids

  • Poisons and poisonous gases

  • Corrosives

  • Nonflammable gases

  • Oxidizers

  • Radioactive materials

Identification Methods

Location and Occupancy:

  • Industrial: warehouses, rail yards, shipyards

  • Household: under sinks, workshops, garages, basements

  • Commercial: dry cleaners, funeral homes, supply stores, big box stores

  • Transportation: delivery vans

Warning Systems: Placards act as "STOP SIGNS" for CERT volunteers

NFPA 704 DIAMOND SYSTEM

Four Colored Quadrants (0-4 scale, higher = more dangerous)

  • RED: Flammability hazard

  • BLUE: Health hazard

  • YELLOW: Reactivity hazard

  • WHITE: Special precautions

Special Symbols

  • W: Water reactive (never mix with water)

  • OX: Oxidizing properties (increases fire/explosion potential)

  • ACID: Acidic material

  • ALK: Basic/alkaline material

  • COR: Corrosive material

  • ā˜¢: Radioactive material

CERT Action

ONLY action: Evacuate people downwind to uphill/upwind location DO NOT: Enter building to evacuate people inside

GLOBAL HARMONIZED SYSTEM (GHS)

Three Standard Elements

  1. Symbols: Pictograms showing physical, health, environmental hazards

  2. Signal Words:

    • "DANGER" = severe hazards

    • "WARNING" = less severe hazards

    • No word = lower level hazards

  3. Hazard Statements: Standardized phrases describing each hazard

Additional Elements

  • Precautionary statements and pictograms

  • Product identifiers

  • Supplier identification

  • Supplemental information

TRANSPORTATION PLACARDS

Three Systems

  1. DOT (Department of Transportation)

  2. UN (United Nations)

  3. NA (North American)

Critical Points

  • Placards are "STOP SIGNS" for CERT volunteers

  • No placard doesn't mean no hazmat (under 1,000 lbs may not require placard)

  • Some materials have different placards for domestic vs international transport

  • Drivers sometimes forget to change placards with cargo changes

  • Use extreme caution approaching any accident vehicle

Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

  • Used by first responders for transportation hazmat emergencies

  • Provides identification, protection, and evacuation information

  • Includes recommended evacuation distances

HAZMAT RECOGNITION - SIGHTS, SOUNDS, SMELLS

Remember:

  • Hazmat may be present without placards/warnings

  • May not be able to recognize toxic substances

  • Stay away from unidentifiable substances

  • Alert authorities immediately

KEY SAFETY REMINDERS

Critical Rules

  1. 5-second rule: If fire not out in 5 seconds, evacuate

  2. Two exit routes always

  3. Buddy system always

  4. Safety equipment always

  5. Rescuer safety is #1 priority

When in Doubt

  • Evacuate

  • Call for professional help

  • Don't take unnecessary risks

  • Error on side of safety

Equipment Limitations

  • Interior wet standpipes: CERT volunteers should NEVER operate (too difficult to manage)

  • Smoke-filled areas: Don't enter (lack proper equipment)

  • Large fires: Don't attempt (beyond CERT capability)

STUDY TIPS FOR COMPETITION

Must Know Cold

  • Fire triangle elements

  • Five classes of fire with examples

  • P.A.S.S. technique

  • 9-step size-up process

  • 5 questions before using extinguisher

  • Safety rules and procedures

  • NFPA 704 diamond meanings

  • Gas shutoff procedures

  • When to evacuate vs. when to fight

Common Test Areas

  • Fire classification scenarios

  • Extinguisher selection for fire types

  • Safety procedure sequences

  • Hazmat identification

  • Emergency response priorities

  • Size-up decision making

Remember: This is about saving lives safely - when in doubt, prioritize safety and call professionals!