Fire Fighting Course: Debunking More Common Myths About Fire Safety

Worldwide there are many common myths and misconceptions about fire safety. Differentiating between what is a myth and what is true is something our fire fighting course programs can help trainees understand. In this article, we will bring to light a few more dangerous myths about fire safety.

It's crucial to know the facts, whether you are an individual seeking to upskill with a fire fighting course or seeking to train your employees, that's why we at EMCARE have compiled this second part list about debunking common myths about fire safety, if you're still reading it means you're ready to learn more, so let's dive in!

Myth: Fire Spreads Slowly, So We Have Plenty of Time

Perhaps one of the silliest myths (believe us, many people think this) is that fire spreads slowly. Of course, this is a very dangerous misconception, as the harsh reality is that a fire can spread rapidly, often doubling in size every thirty seconds, producing thick, toxic smoke that incapacitates people in a matter of minutes. This is just one of many facts you will learn during your fire fighting course training.

As per fire experts, you actually have less than two minutes to escape a burning building safely.

For example, let's use a kitchen scenario: small kitchen fires caused by forgotten pots can escalate into a full-scale blaze in a few minutes, and the fire will consume curtains, cabinets and wooden furniture. In this very short time, the smoke generated by the blaze will fill all the rooms, block the exits and make it almost impossible to breathe or see. Not to mention the risk of smoke inhalation, which is one of the leading causes of fire-related fatalities.

EMCARE's Intermediate fire fighting course teaches all participants about fire dynamics, how they grow and spread, and how to create effective evacuation plans. You'll be taught why acting swiftly is crucial and how to safely evacuate yourself and others in various scenarios, ensuring that you're never caught unprepared. The course also covers communicating effectively during an evacuation, how to remain calm under pressure, and how to assist others who might need help escaping the fire.

Myth: If There's A Fire, I'll Just Call Emergency Services

Of course, we know that calling emergency services is critical during a fire, but often it's not enough. Today, on average, it takes between five and seven minutes for emergency first responders to arrive on the scene, and in that time, a small flame can grow into a full-blown inferno. That's why proper, immediate action is crucial in controlling the situation and minimising injury (or death) and property damage.

Always consider that in those precious minutes before help arrives, that every second counts. Having the acumen to react immediately can mean the difference between a small, manageable fire, or a total disaster. It's simple actions like shutting doors to contain the spread of the fire and smoke, using fire extinguishers properly, and using the quickest escape route that can save lives.

Our courses will train you to know what to do during those precious minutes before help arrives. Every fire fighting course we offer covers everything from identifying escape routes, proper use of fire fighting equipment, performing rescues, and stabilising victims until the first responders arrive. You'll also learn the importance of fire drills, which emergency number to have on speed dial, and the critical steps to take to make sure that everyone involved knows what to do in the event of a fire.

Myth: Stop, Drop And Roll Is Enough

We've all seen or heard the phrase "Stop, drop and roll", and while this is a vital technique for extinguishing flames on clothing, it is in no way a complete strategy for complete fire safety. It's essential to know how and when to safely use this technique, but also crucial to understand other fire safety principles. These include proper fire prevention, evacuation plans and as we mentioned above, the proper use of fire extinguishers.

It's too common that many people believe that knowing this one technique is sufficient preparation for any fire-related emergency.

EMCARE's fire fighting course covers a diverse range of emergency response techniques beyond the "Stop, Drop, and Roll" technique. Our courses provide everything from first aid to the handling of hazardous materials, and you'll also learn the complete set of skills needed to protect yourself and others in any fire emergency.

Myth: Modern Buildings Are Fireproof

Believe it or not, many people still believe that modern buildings are "fireproof" due to the stringent building codes found today and the fact that many are built with fire-resistant materials.

Of course, this is not true, no building is entirely immune to fire. Modern construction materials, like synthetic polymers and composites can actually burn rapidly and release toxic fumes, posing serious health risks to people. In addition, open floor plans, which are popular in many modern constructions, can actually allow fires to spread rapidly through spaces without barriers. The understanding of building materials and how they can burn is yet another component covered in our fire fighting course.

Let's use high-rise buildings as an example, while these skyscrapers do use advanced materials for insulation and energy efficiency, they can contribute to a faster spread of fire if ignited. The Grenfell Tower fire in London, for instance, tragically demonstrated how certain cladding materials can contribute to the rapid spread of fire.

How EMCARE's Fire Fighting Course Helps Correct These Myths

At EMCARE, our fire fighting course is developed to address and dispel all these common yet dangerous myths. We implement a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical training, and our courses teach the realities of fire behaviour, the importance of proper preparation, and the necessary steps to implement during an emergency. With our expert instructors and robust focus on real-life scenarios, EMCARE ensures that every participant leaves our courses properly equipped to handle fire emergencies.

Our courses range from basic fire awareness to advanced professional training like our Firefighter 1 SP & Hazmat Awareness SP Course and our Firefighter 2 SP and Hazmat Operations SP Course. So whether you're seeking to properly safeguard your home, workplace, or community, there is a fire fighting course for all with full information on our website, so don't hesitate to contact us today.