Methods of Fire Extinguishment | Security Guard

Fire is one of the most dangerous hazards that security guards must be prepared to handle. To ensure safety and proper emergency response, it’s essential to understand how to extinguish a fire effectively. In this article, we have explained the four main methods used to extinguish fire, including removing fuel, cutting off oxygen, reducing heat, and interrupting the chemical reaction. These techniques are critical for those preparing for security guard training, PSBD, SIRA, and other fire safety-related exams. Read carefully to build your fire safety knowledge and become more confident in handling real-life fire emergencies.

1. Cooling
In this method, fire is extinguished by removing the heat. Water is the most common element used for cooling. Solids (Class A) fire can be extinguished by cooling method.

2. Smothering
In this method, fire is extinguished by cutting off the oxygen supply. As we know that about 21% of our atmosphere is occupied by oxygen we need to cover the fire in order to remove the contact with oxygen. Foam extinguishers, CO2 extinguishers, wet clothes, and fire blankets are used for smothering. Liquid and Gas (Class B), Electrical (Class C), Metal (Class D), and Vegetables oil and Animal fats (Class K) fires can be extinguished by smothering method.

3. Starvation
In this method, fire is extinguished by removing fuel supply. In case of flammable gas and liquid fire, we can shut off the fuel supply. It is only applicable to some extent. Liquid and Gas (Class B) and Electrical (Class C) fires can be extinguished by starvation method.

4. Chain breaking
We can prevent chemical reactions with the fire and extinguish the flame. It can also be used as an alternate for most of the types of fire. DCP is used for inhibiting chemical reactions. Liquid (Class B) fires can be extinguished by this method.

Easy to remember

1. Cooling↔️Removal of heat

2. Smothering↔️Cutting of oxygen supply

3. Starvation↔️Removal of fuel supply

4. Chain breaking↔️Using of flame inhibitor