Fire suppression refers to the process of controlling and putting out fires to protect the people and lives from injuries and to prevent the loss of property. Fire control tactics vary with different kind of fires. Fires are basically classified into five classes namely Class A, B, C, D and E which respectively deal with fires due to combustibles, flammable fluids, electrical equipments, flammable metals and kitchen cooking. Specialized fire suppression systems are designed for specific fire threats to ensure the safety of lives and property from all kinds of fire related risks.
Systems of fire suppression
These suppression systems are basically classified into different categories on the basis of the severity of injuries caused, source of fire outbreaks and the required assistance. The basic mechanism behind all fire inhibition systems is the inhibition of fire growth by cutting down fuel, heat or oxygen. The common fire suppression methods widely used today are:
Fire extinguishers: Fire extinguishers, portable or fixed, are installed in buildings to ensure fire safety at times of emergencies. Fire extinguishers contain in them chemicals or substances like carbon dioxide, foam, vaporizing liquid etc which are capable of putting out the fire in a short duration of time.
Fire sprinkler systems: Fire sprinklers are automatic equipments which come to aid during fire emergencies by allowing controlled discharge of water over the affected site. Efficient fire sprinkler systems, if installed properly, can help a great deal to control the fire and suppress it to a certain extent.
Water mist systems: Water mist system is a kind of fixed water spray which discharges controlled droplets of water. Water mist systems are advantageous in situations where the fire threat should be prevented from growing further. These systems lessen the heat and reduce the oxygen content, thereby suppressing fire.
Fixed gas extinguishing systems: These systems protect a particular enclosure from fire hazards and help to suppress fires in that enclosure by preventing re-ignition in that area.
Pipes and hoses systems: In localities where proper fire protection systems have not been installed, a proper pipe and hose system in place, with water accessibility, may help a great deal to suppress the fire.
Halon fire suppressors: Halon, a liquefied compressed gas, can act as an effective fire extinguishing agent. Halon is capable of limiting combustion. Though Halon is a CFC, it is an efficient fire suppressor.
So, all these fire extinguishing systems are smart enough in suppressing the fires but the type of fire should always be considered for taking full advantage of them.