There is one civilian fire death every 118 minutes. There is one civilian fire injury every 18 minutes. The Nature of Fire Fires are likely to start in many places in the home including the kitchen, living room, bedroom and storage areas such as, the attic, basement, workroom or storeroom. Causes of fire include overheated or overloaded electrical wire, cigarette ashes, smoldering ashes in the couch, sparks from the fireplace, unattended outdoor fires and barbecues, appliances in poor repair and unattended cooking in the kitchen. To understand the dangers of fire in the home, first understand the nature of fire.
Fire occurs any time four elements are present - fuel, heat, oxygen and the chemical chain reaction.
When these four elements are together, fire occurs. If any one element is removed, fire is prevented. Oxygen, found in the air we breathe, is required for the burning process to occur. Heat provides a source of ignition, such as a match or a lighter, and causes the continued vaporization of solids such as wood in flammable gases. The chemical chain reaction or high molecular activity is needed to keep the fire burning.