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Tag: Essential Fire Safety

10 Common Fire Extinguisher Mistakes You Should Avoid

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While fire extinguishers are designed to be user-friendly, people still make some common mistakes when using them. To ensure that you know how to use a fire extinguisher properly, avoid these mistakes:
  • Not knowing How to Use the Fire Extinguisher: One of the most common mistakes people make is not knowing how to use the fire extinguisher. This is a serious mistake, as it can mean the difference between putting out a fire and making it worse. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the fire extinguisher before using it.
  • Using the Wrong Type of Fire Extinguisher: Another common mistake is using the wrong type of fire extinguisher. There are different types of fire extinguishers for different types of fires. Make sure to check the label on the fire extinguisher to ensure that you are using the right type.
  • Not Aiming the Fire Extinguisher Properly: Another common mistake is not aiming the fire extinguisher properly. When using a fire extinguisher, you need to aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. This will ensure that the extinguishing agent is delivered to the source of the fire.
  • Not Using the Fire Extinguisher Properly: Another common mistake is not using the fire extinguisher properly. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fire extinguisher. This will ensure that you are using it correctly.
  • Not Having the Fire Extinguisher in the Right Place: Another common mistake is not having the fire extinguisher in the right place. Make sure to keep the fire extinguisher in a location that is easily accessible in the event of a fire.
  • Not Reading the Instructions: Even if you think you know how to use a fire extinguisher, it’s important to read the instructions before using it. The instructions will tell you the best way to use the fire extinguisher for the situation you’re in.
  • Not Maintaining Fire Extinguishers: Just like any other piece of equipment, fire extinguishers need to be regularly maintained. Check the pressure gauge to make sure the fire extinguisher is fully charged. Inspect it for any damage, and make sure the nozzle is not obstructed.
  • Using it too Late: One of the most common mistakes people make with fire extinguishers is waiting too long to use them. If you wait until the fire is out of control, it will be too late. If you see a fire, use your fire extinguisher right away.
  • Using it When it’s not Needed: Even though fire extinguishers are designed to be user-friendly, people still make some common mistakes when using them. Sometimes people use fire extinguishers when it’s not necessary, such as when there’s a small fire that could easily be extinguished with water. If you’re not sure whether or not you should use a fire extinguisher, err on the side of caution and don’t use it.
  • Forgetting to Recharge or Replace it: Another mistake people make is forgetting to recharge or replace their fire extinguishers. Just like any other piece of equipment, fire extinguishers need to be regularly maintained. If you use your fire extinguisher, make sure to recharge or replace it as soon as possible. By doing so, you’ll be prepared in the event of a future fire.

Also read :How Do I Know If My Fire Extinguisher Needs to Be Recharged?

Final Words

While fire extinguishers are a great tool to have in the event of a fire, it’s important to be familiar with them before using them. There are some common mistakes that people make when using fire extinguishers, such as using the wrong type, not aiming properly, and not using them properly. Make sure to familiarize yourself with fire extinguishers before using them, so that you can use them correctly in the event of a fire.

Fire Partners of Evil

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The fire has many fellow conspirators that aid it in its destructive motives. A few examples are rubbing alcohol, aerosol cans, nail paint, nail paint remover, linseed oil, gasoline, turpentine, etc. These are highly combustible substances and thus pose a great threat if there’s a fire near them. Once these catch fire, they burn with such intensity that other items such as plastic, rubber, and home furnishing all come in its deadly grip.


Some other highly flammable materials such as fireworks, fuses, ammunition, igniters, blasting caps, pocket lighters, torches, etc., all act as reinforcement and contribute heat and gas to a raging fire thus, enhancing its extent of destructiveness. Certain liquids such as petroleum, benzene, acetone, etc. are also very burnable and thus dangerous.

EVIL PARTNERS IN FIRE

1. Combustible Dust

The materials that aren’t inflammable in normal states can turn highly volatile in dust form. The major cause of fires in wood manufacturing, food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and any other industry is this combustible dust that is often not considered as a threat. For a fire to come into being two things are needed, first a burnable material and second an ignition source. Once these two combine, an explosion can occur which will lift the dust from the ground making it airborne. This airborne dust particle can then cause a second explosion of a bigger magnitude. This can cause huge damage to life and property as these explosions have the potential to burn down entire buildings.

2. Hot Work

Activities such as welding, brazing, burning, torch cutting, heating, soldering, etc., all come under this category. This is due to the high mobility of sparks and molten materials that reach beyond a temperature of 1000°F and can easily travel in all directions up to a distance of 35 feet. These are also a leading cause for dust fires and these sparks can easily serve as the source of ignition for combustible dust nearby. There is a need to install Palex smoke detectors and Agni Heat detectors at such risky places.

3. Flammable Liquids and Gases

This category includes substances such as fuels, cleaners, thinners, solvents, wax, adhesives, etc. The issue here is that people aren’t usually aware of the high risk of fire associated with these materials due to their high combustibility. A fire that involves these liquids or gases can be very catastrophic.

4. Equipment and Machinery

Machinery in industries is always at a high risk of fire due to the immense friction between parts, which are in constant motion. For instance, when furnaces are mishandled and not properly installed, they become a major cause of the industrial fire. As these machines are in constant heavy motion, a lot of friction develops between their parts, thus becoming a potential of fire hazard. However, these risks can be considerably decreased by proper maintenance, such as lubrication of machines and equipment. make it sure to install Palladium AGNI 2 Zone Fire Alarm System for the safety of your employees.


Also read :Common Electrical Panel Problems and How to Solve Them

5. Electrical Fires

One of the major and most lethal causes of fire is an electrical fire. This can happen due to a number of faults such as exposed wires, extension cords, overloaded outlets, static discharge, etc. These can easily become an ignition source for any combustible material nearby such as combustible dust, inflammable liquids or gases, thus leading to fire of a very big extent.

The Role of Fire Hose Pipes in Urban Firefighting:

Posted on by palladiumSS_blog

Urban firefighting is a critical endeavor involving swift and effective control of fires in densely populated areas.

Fire hose pipe stands out as a primary weapon in their arsenal among firefighters’ various tools and equipment.

This blog will delve into the essential role of fire hose pipes in urban firefighting, the challenges faced in their utilization, and the innovative solutions developed to overcome these obstacles.

The Vital Role of Fire Hose Pipes

Fire hose pipes are like the backbone of firefighting work. They are very important because they help to move water or other substances that put out fires from one place to another. These dependable and efficient pipes make it easier for firefighters to control fires effectively.

1. Supply of Water: Fire hose pipes provide an uninterrupted water flow to the fire scene.In urban settings, where fire hydrants and municipal water supply systems are readily available, these hoses connect the water source to the fire trucks and, ultimately, the firefighters.

2.Fire Suppression: Fire hose pipes enable firefighters to direct a powerful stream of water directly onto the flames.This targeted approach helps to extinguish the fire while minimizing collateral damage to surrounding structures and properties.

3. Life-saving Operations: Apart from fire suppression, fire hose pipes are instrumental in conducting search and rescue missions, creating safe escape routes, and protecting trapped individuals from harm.

Challenges in Urban Firefighting with Fire Hose Pipes

While fire hose pipes are indispensable in urban firefighting, they also present various challenges that firefighters must address to ensure their effectiveness:

1. Water Supply Limitations: In densely populated urban areas, access to an adequate water supply might be limited. This is especially true if the municipal water infrastructure is compromised due to the fire or if the area lacks sufficient fire hydrants.

2. Hose Weight and Handling: Fire hose pipes can be heavy during extended firefighting operations.The weight of the hoses can hamper mobility and increase the physical strain on firefighters, affecting their ability to respond swiftly.

3. Water Pressure Loss: As the water travels through the hoses, friction can lead to pressure losses, affecting the reach and force of the water stream.This can be problematic when extinguishing fires on higher floors or hard-to-reach areas.

Solutions to Overcome Challenges

Over the years, firefighting professionals and researchers have developed innovative solutions to tackle the challenges posed by fire hose pipes in urban settings:

1.Advanced Water Supply Systems: Fire departments have started adopting sophisticated water supply systems, including mobile water tanks, portable water sources, and alternative water supply methods. This ensures a steady and sufficient water supply even in areas with limited access to municipal water sources.

2. Lightweight Materials: To address the issue of hose weight, manufacturers have introduced lightweight and durable materials for fire hose construction. These modern hoses provide enhanced manoeuvrability without compromising performance.

3. High-pressure Nozzles and Pumps: Firefighters can now access high-pressure nozzles and pumps that help counteract water pressure losses. These advancements allow the water stream to reach higher floors and exert a greater force on the fire, enhancing firefighting efficiency.


Also read :How To Use A Fire Hose Pipe?

Conclusion

It’s essential to think about the role of fire hose pipes in city firefighting. These unique tools help firefighters quickly and effectively fight fires, protect lives, and save buildings in crowded areas.

If we keep researching and using better firefighting technology, we can give our brave firefighters the best tools.

By using improved water supply systems, lightweight materials, and better pumps and nozzles, the firefighting industry can move forward and be ready to handle the challenges of city firefighting with fire hose pipes.

What to do if a Fire Starts?

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Fire accidents are on the rise in our nation and we can hear of people succumbing to it every day. Various preventive measures should be incorporated so that a person can be ready during such mishaps. Instructions to fire safety start right from the school. Fire safety lessons should be given to children in schools so that they know what to do and which actions to take.  

Steps to Help You Know Your Way Out in Case of an Emergency

Fire Drills

Fire drills should be installed at homes and schools as they make you ready for what to do in a fire. There should be an emergency exit plan and practice them beforehand. This is a way to examine how to act in case of a real emergency. Every family should rehearse this plan at least twice a year. Change the batteries of your smoke alarms during this time. Make sure that your family gets out safely using the fire exit route and meet at a decided place within a time frame of 3 minutes. You can add variations as per your likings.  Different houses will have different fire exit plans. Some are one-story houses while some are double or triple storied. 

Know Your Way Out

An escape family is highly important as it ensures the safety of every member of your family. “quick and safe” is the main aim. Everyone should remember the route to a fire alarm as the smoke can make the route less visible. You should know the number of exits and the way to them. People living in apartments or buildings should know the way to the staircase for emergency exits.

Safety Steps

You’ll have to take a few extra steps when you are in a room with a closed-door while the fire breaks out. 
  • Check if there’s fire on the other side and smoke coming through the door.
  • Don’t open the door if the smoke comes under the door.
  • Touch the doorknob. If it is hot then there’s fire on the other side. Don’t open it.
  • If there’s no smoke coming in and the doorknob isn’t hot, there’s no fire on the other side. Open the door carefully and try to escape.

Stay Low

If there’s smoke in the house, stay as low as possible so that you can see your way to the exit. Poisonous air does more harm than actual fire. You can also crawl in case of dense smoke. Try not to inhale it.

Know Your Exit Route

The main door exit should be your first choice to get out of the house. You should also be aware of the windows and balconies as other options to make your way out. In such scenarios, firefighters can be of great help. Learn how to remove the grills and screens of the windows in case of emergency. Keep a collapsible escape ladder in a safe place. Know where to meet your family outside. If your pet is nearby you, pick him up and get out immediately. Remember, you and your life come first and you’ll have to leave your pet behind if there’s no rescue option for him. Inform the fire rescue team about the pets and they’ll help.

What If Immediate Exit Isn’t Available?

Yell for help in such situations. Call 101 or yell from a window. Never hide under the bed or inside a closet. Be at places where firefighters can see you. 

What If Your Clothes Catch Fire?

Don’t run. Stay still and drop to the ground. Cover your face with your hands and roll. This will put out the flames. Stop, drop and roll.
Also read :How to Create a Fire Evacuation Plan

Conclusion

Remember to keep in mind the above-mentioned steps. Keep an exit plan ready well in advance. Be aware of all the possible exit routes according to the worst situations. Install  Palladium Zone 6 Detection System and Palladium Zone 6 Fire Alarm System to get enough time to tackle the fire when it is in its initial stages.

Fire Prevention

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Introduction

Fire is a deadly weapon. It can destroy lives and property. So we have to adapt some prevention to avoid such a disaster.

Continue reading “Fire Prevention”

Warehouse Fires – A Nightmare for a Business  

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Warehouse fires are not just a threat of losing expensive business stock and equipment but can also endanger the lives of staff. A warehouse fire is a real nightmare scenario for a business, so it essential for organizations to minimize the risk.


Causes of Warehouse Fires


  • There are many causes of warehouse fires but the top causes are electrical malfunctions and poor housekeeping. Damaged wire, lighting fixtures, and heating units can cause great loss.
  • It doesn’t matter who is the cause of the fire but what matters is how that mistake is executed. So always make strict laws to work in the warehouse.
  • Some fires are intentionally executed to claim insurance or to do some fraud.
  • No proper installation or maintenance of fire safety equipment is also the major cause of the fire.

Also read :Fire Safety For Kids: Teaching Your Children How to Stay Safe


WareHouse Fires Preventions


  • Understand and Apply the Laws Applying to Fire Protection in Warehouses: Fire safety is governed by a number of laws and codes. That includes storage height, the distance between racks, and many more.


  • Often Carry Our Risk Assessment: Opt fire prevention according to the material you will going to store. 


  • Know What Products You are Carrying and Advise Your Local Fire Department: If you are storing flammable substances then issue safety data sheets perfectly.


  • Ensure Products are Stored Properly: Different materials require different storage units so plan accordingly.


  • Develop and Post a Fire Safety Plan: Include an evacuation plan and make sure the warehouse has a number of exits.


  • Train All Employees On Your Fire Safety Procedures: Train all employees how to tackle the panic situation so that loss can be minimized


  • Practice Good Housekeeping: Good housekeeping help to avoid the risk of fire to a great extent.


  • Don’t Use Electrical Heaters or Temporary Cords: Electrical equipment should be used outside the warehouse or use with some precautions.


  • Install Fire Extinguishers at Every Possible Point: A fire extinguisher is the best tool to fight the fire


  • Install Fire Alarm System With Smoke Detectors: that help to generate a warning when the fire is in initial stages: Fire alarm system helps you to execute proper plan to save the lives and property.


  • Fire Suppression Systems (Sprinklers and hydrants) are Much Beneficial: Sprinklers help to extinguish fires when the fire has just started.


  • Regularly Check that the Smoke Detector and Sprinklers are Working Properly or Not: maintenance of the fire alarm system is essential as fire can break out anytime and anywhere.

Why do Fire Extinguishers Need to be Serviced?

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It is indeed a challenging task job to maintain a fire extinguisher. This needs to be done as a legal requirement as they play an essential role in putting out fires. So, they must be in a proper working state when needed. It is also mandatory for business owners to equip fire safety devices in their buildings annually. 

Fire extinguisher vessels, if corroded can burst when under pressure. This can cause severe injury and sometimes even death.

The water-based fire extinguisher should be visually inspected monthly and serviced annually. Powder-based extinguishers should also be visually inspected monthly and serviced annually. Both of them have an extended service period of 5 years. Powder-based primary sealed fire extinguishers should be visually inspected monthly and serviced annually. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers should also be visually inspected monthly and serviced annually. They both have extended period service of 10 years. 

Below are a Few Reasons Why the Extinguishers Need to be Serviced Regularly

  • To check the damage on any side of the cylinder. Steel extinguishers can get corroded, which weakens the work capacity of the cylinder.
  • Another thing to check is the hose blockage. The extinguisher cannot function properly if the hose gets clogged.
  • The pressure gauge should be inspected for each working fire extinguisher. The meter indicates its function and should be centered in the green zone. The meter automatically drops after a while.
  • The businesses can renew their BOMBA licenses annually if their fire extinguisher is serviced. Failing to do so might result in the revoking of business licenses by the officials.
  • Certified professionals can inspect thoroughly and realize any damaged or service parts to be repaired. You can call them by booking an appointment online.

The Fire Industry has ISO Certified Team of Specialists Who will Give You Their Best Advice on the Best Quality Fire System

  • Leakage- Leaks can occur, making the fire extinguisher useless. Pressure gauges can be used to check that unseen leakage.
  • Labels- Fire extinguishers suffer wear and tear even when not in use. The labels can fade and be challenging to read. This can create difficulty for the person trying to operate a fire extinguisher.
  • Recharging- Fire extinguishers should be recharged immediately, even if used partially, to ensure that they are ready to be used in the future.

What’s Included in the Primary Visual Inspection?

Location of the extinguisher, visibility of the extinguisher, operating instructions- clean and easy to read, condition of the extinguisher- damaged or missing parts, the pressure of the extinguisher- should be within operating limits and tamper seals.

Extended Service

Most of the fire extinguishers need extended service every five years. The extinguisher should be discharged, checked for internal corrosion, refilled, and repressurized. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers require a comprehensive service every ten years.

How Often Should You Get them Serviced?

Extinguishers should be serviced every month. In addition, annual maintenance should also be done. If you see the fire pressure needle out of the central area, call the fire inspection department as soon as possible. Make sure that the condition of the fire extinguisher is good with adequate pressure. The date of manufacture of fire extinguishers should also be checked from time to time. Some extinguishers need to be refurbished after 5-6 years.


Also read :The Advantages Of Clean Agent Suppression Systems For High-Value Assets

Conclusion

The fire extinguishing equipment should be serviced timely to readily available when needed. Any minor carelessness can prove fatal and termination of the business license. The fire safety department is ready to provide help round the clock. Know what’s best for you.

Why You Should Install Fire-Rated Doors in Your Buildings

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A fire door is a particular door that is designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. Fire doors are usually made of metal or fire-resistant material and are typically located in areas with a risk of fire, such as in stairwells or near exits.

They are an essential part of a building’s fire safety system and can help save lives in the event of a fire. When a fire starts, the first thing that you should do is close all of the doors in the affected area.


This will help to contain the fire and stop it from spreading. If there is a fire door in the area, make sure that you close it too. Fire doors are usually equipped with a self-closing device, which means they will close automatically if a fire occurs. However, it is crucial to ensure that the door is shut correctly before leaving the area.

Why You Should Install Fire-Rated Doors in Your Buildings

When a fire starts, the first thing that you should do is close all of the doors in the affected area. This will help to contain the fire and stop it from spreading. If there is a fire door in the area, make sure that you close it too.

Fire doors are usually equipped with a self-closing device, which means they will close automatically if a fire occurs. However, it is essential to ensure that the door is shut correctly before leaving the area.

Fire doors are an essential part of a building’s fire safety system. They are usually made of metal or fire-resistant material and are typically located in areas where there is a risk of fire, such as in stairwells or near exits.

Fire doors can help to save lives in the event of a fire. When choosing doors for your building, it is essential to select both fire-rated and impact-rated doors. Fire-rated doors are tested to withstand fire for a certain period of time, and they are usually made of metal or fire-resistant material.

Impact-rated doors are tested to withstand the force of a collision, and they are usually made of steel or reinforced wood. Choosing both fire-rated and impact-rated doors will help ensure the safety of your building and its occupants.


What Should One Look For in Fire Doors?

When choosing doors for your building, it is essential to select both fire-rated and impact-rated doors. Fire-rated doors are tested to withstand fire for a certain period of time, and they are usually made of metal or fire-resistant material. Impact-rated doors are tested to withstand the force of a collision, and they are generally made of steel or reinforced wood. Choosing both fire-rated and impact-rated doors will help ensure the safety of your building and its occupants.
Also read :What are Fire Rated Doors and Why are They Important

Conclusion

Fire doors are an essential component of any building’s fire safety system. Fire doors help contain fires, prevent the spread of smoke, and even save lives. When choosing doors for your facility, be sure to select fire-rated and impact-rated doors to ensure the safety of your occupants.

What are Fire Rated Doors and Why are They Important

Posted on by palladiumSS_blog
A unique fire-rated door helps prevent fire and smoke from spreading through different building parts. People typically install them in areas with higher fire risk, such as stairs, lifts, and engine rooms. Fire-rated doors are made of solid materials that resist fire and heat. Fire-rated doors are typically constructed with tested and rated materials for their ability to withstand exposure to flames and heat. These materials can include steel, wood, and glass, and they are selected based on their ability to maintain their structural integrity during a fire. In addition to their fire resistance properties, fire-rated doors have other safety features, such as automatic closing mechanisms and seals to prevent the spread of smoke and toxic gases.

Types of Fire-Rated Doors

There are several types of fire-rated doors available for different applications. Some of the common types of fire-rated doors include: 
  1. Hollow Metal Doors: These are the most commonly used fire-rated doors, and they are made of steel or other metal materials. They are durable and offer excellent fire protection. 
  2. Wooden Doors: Fire-rated wooden doors are available in various designs and finishes to match the building’s decor. They provide good insulation and can resist fire for up to 60 minutes. 
  3. Glass Doors: Glass doors with fire ratings suit buildings requiring great natural lighting. These things are made from solid glass that can handle scorching temperatures for an hour without breaking. 
  4. Steel Doors with a Glass Panel: The doors have see-through parts made of glass that let sunlight come through and brighten up the area around them. These objects exhibit impressive fire resistance, enduring flames for as long as 90 minutes. 
  5. Sliding Doors: Fire-rated sliding doors are ideal for buildings with restricted space. They come in various materials, including steel, glass, and wood. 
  6. Double Doors: Fire-rated double doors have two that meet in the centre and provide additional fire and smoke protection. 
The kind of fire-rated door used for a building will rely on several elements, including the facility’s occupancy, design, and purpose. Contacting an expert to choose the best fire-rated door for a particular application is crucial.

Importance

Here are some key points on why fire-rated doors are essential:
  1. Fire Protection: During an emergency, persons and property are protected by fire-rated doors.
  2. Building Safety: Fire-rated doors are crucial for security, particularly in high-rise structures and buildings with numerous people. 
  3. Safety Features: Additional safety elements included in fire-rated doors include automatic shutting mechanisms and seals that stop the spread of hazardous gases and smoke. 
  4. Proper Installation and Maintenance: Fire-rated doors must be properly fitted and maintained to ensure their efficacy in the case of a fire.

Also read :Why You Should Install Fire-Rated Doors in Your Buildings
In conclusion, when considering safeguarding measures, one must consider fire-rated doors. Fire suppression systems’ primary objective is to prevent fire propagation and smoke release, thereby protecting people and property in unanticipated contingencies. Property owners and facility managers must ensure appropriate installation and maintenance of their fire-resistant doors in adherence to building codes and regulatory norms to ensure optimal efficacy.

Fire Safety and Evacuation Plan

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Fire safety is essential for all buildings to live a safe and secure life. While designing any building, fire safety is the prior concern. A valid fire safety and evacuation plan must be able to define what needs to happen in the vent of fire. It should be easily accessible by all the employees.

To create a detailed and proper plan, you must show the following things.

  • A safe meeting point for staff to meet that should be far away from the building.
  • Proper maintenance of emergency doors so that they can be open easily.
  • Clearly marked escape routes that provide the quickest and most direct exit from the building.
  • There should be a number of emergency-exists according to people gathering strength in the building. So that everyone can easily exit from the building without any panic.
  • There would not be any blockage in the exit path.
  • If the fire is due to electrical short-circuiting then it is necessary to switch off emergency lights.
  • It is crucial to check frequently that all the fire detection and warning system are fully functioning or not.
  • Appropriate fire safety equipment is properly installed from the best manufacturers to ensure safety.
  • All staff should be trained to deal in such a panic situation. They should know the proper use of fire equipment.
  • Installation of fire extinguishers and fire alarm systems can also help to be safe from fire.
  • Palladium Zone 4 detection system can help to alert so that a proper plan can be executed.

Also read :Common Electrical Panel Problems and How to Solve Them

Installation of Fire Exit and Fire Doors

A fire-safe building always has a large number of emergency exit to ensure quick and easy escape. The main purpose of all these things is to have the least damage to lives and property in case of fire. Fire-rated glass is being used nowadays as a more stylish and practical approach for a fire safety plan. These fire glasses are used to make compartments in buildings and have the capability to withstand high temperatures. They won’t allow the fire to spread easily. So it ensures a high level of security.

Proper fire protection strategies are crucial to minimizing the risk of fire. However, it’s also important to ensure that the correct fire safety and evacuation plans have been put in place to tackle the worst situation of fire.