This is Fire: A Factsheet on the Nature of Fire
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Every day Americans experience the horror of fire. But
most people don't understand fire. Only when we know the
true nature of fire can we prepare ourselves and our
families. Each year more than 4,000 Americans die
approximately 25,000 are injured in fires, many of which
could be prevented.
The United States Fire Administration (USFA), a
division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA), believes that fire deaths can be reduced by
teaching people the basic facts about fire. Below are some
simple facts that explain the particular characteristics
of fire.
Fire is FAST!
There is little time!
In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get
completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It
only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a
house. In minutes, a house can be engulfed in flames.
Most fires occur in the home when people are asleep. If
you wake up to a fire, you won't have time to grab
valuables because fire spreads too quickly and the smoke
is too thick. There is only time to escape.
Fire is HOT!
Heat is more threatening than flames.
A fire's heat alone can kill. Room temperatures in a
fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600
degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super hot air will
scorch your lungs. This heat can melt clothes to your
skin. In five minutes a room can get so hot that
everything in it ignites at once: this is called
flashover.
Fire is DARK!
Fire isn't bright, it's pitch black.
Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke
and complete darkness. If you wake up to a fire you may
be blinded, disoriented and unable to find your way
around the home you've lived in for years.
Fire is DEADLY!
Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do.
Fire uses up the oxygen you need and produces smoke
and poisonous gases that kill. Breathing even small
amounts of smoke and toxic gases can make you drowsy,
disoriented and short of breath. The odorless, colorless
fumes can lull you into a deep sleep before the flames
reach your door. You may not wake up in time to escape.
Fire Safety Tips
In the event of a fire, remember time is the biggest
enemy and every second counts!
Escape first, then call for help. Develop a home fire
escape plan and designate a meeting place outside. Make
sure everyone in the family knows two ways to escape from
every room. Practice feeling your way out with your eyes
closed. Never stand up in a fire, always crawl low under
the smoke and try to keep your mouth covered. Never return
to a burning building for any reason; it may cost you your
life.
Finally, having a working smoke alarm dramatically
increases your chances of surviving a fire. And remember
to practice a home escape plan frequently with your
family.
For More Information Contact:
The United States Fire Administration
Office of Fire Management Programs
16825 South Seton Avenue
Emmitsburg, MD 21727
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