Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters LESSON 7.4 FIRE SAFETY 14 page student lesson - 1 of 14 D eath from fires and burns is the fifth most common cause of unintentional death in the United States. America’s fire death rate is one of the highest per capita in the industrialized world. The National Fire Protection Association provided the following statistics as a snapshot of the true cost of fire in the United States. 2008 Snapshot of the Cost of Fire in the United States: l More than 3,500 civilians lost their lives as the result of fire. l Over 16,700 civilian injuries occurred as the result of fire. l There were 118 firefighters killed while on duty in 2008. l Fire killed more Americans than all natural disasters combined. l 84% of all civilian fire deaths occurred in residences. l There were an estimated 1.5 million fires in 2008. lDirect property loss due to fires is estimated at $15.5 billion. This figure includes the 2008 California wildfires with an estimated loss of $1.4 billion. l An estimated 32,500 intentionally set structure fires resulted in 315 civilian deaths. l Intentionally set structure fires resulted in an estimated $866 million in property damage. In order to protect yourself and those around you, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire: lFire spreads quickly. You do not have time to gather valuables; get out immediately. lThe smoke and hot air can be as dangerous as the fire itself, scalding lungs and causing asphyxiation. Continued on the next page Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters 7.4-4 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media LESSON 7.4 Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters FIRE SAFETY CONTINUED 2 of 14 F ires need three ingredients: 2 1 3 igniter an (a match, an electrical spark or other source of intense heat) oxygen fuel (something that will burn—wood, clothing, trash) It is important to know the common ways fires can start, as well as general prevention techniques and precautions for keeping a fire-safe home. It is a good idea to keep an up-to-date fire extinguisher in a readily available place in your kitchen and garage. lInstall smoke alarms on every floor and check the batteries regularly. General Precautions lMake sure you know your escape routes and review them with your family and peers. lSleep with your door closed. lUse only the fuel designated for the heating unit and follow all instructions. Heating Flammable Liquids lKeep heaters away from flammable materials. lKeep a screen in front of the fireplace and make sure all curtains and drapes are safely out of the way. lNever use flammable liquids (gasoline, naphtha, benzene) indoors. lStore dangerous liquids in approved containers in well-ventilated storage areas. lNever use matches or smoke near flammable liquids. Electrical Wiring Matches and Smoking l l Have a certified electrician check your wiring. l Make sure there are no frayed cords or exposed wiring. l l Keep matches and lighters away from infants and children. Do not overload outlets. Never smoke or use matches in bed. Continued on the next page Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media 7.4-5 Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters LESSON 7.4 FIRE SAFETY CONTINUED 3 of 14 During a Fire If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop and roll until the fire is extinguished. lCheck closed doors for heat before you open them. If it’s hot, DO NOT OPEN IT. If it’s cool, open it slowly and check that the route is not blocked before escaping. lWhen escaping, stay close to the ground to avoid the smoke and poisonous gases. Hang a sheet from a window to signal for help if you are trapped. lClose doors behind you as you leave to slow down the fire. lCall 911. lCool and cover burns. (See Lesson 7.5 for details on first aid for burns.) S m o k e A la rm s S a v e L iv e s! hs T he m aj or it y of fi re -r el at ed de at oc cu r in ho m es w it ho ut w or ki ng tl y sm ok e al ar m s. A sm ok e al ar m gr ea re du ce s yo ur ch an ce s of dy in g in a le d fi re . Sm ok e al ar m s m us t be in st al an d m ai nt ai ne d pr op er ly . Smoke alarm Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters 7.4-6 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media LESSON 7.4 Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters ELECTRICAL SAFETY 4 of 14 I mproper and unsafe electricity use can cause electric shock, electrocution, burns, fires and explosions. Consider these annual statistics: lElectrical hazards cause approximately 4,000 injuries and 400 deaths in the United States per year. lLarge appliances are responsible for 10% of electrocutions each year. lElectrocutions from wiring hazards—including damaged or exposed wiring and household wiring—total approximately 20% yearly. Quick Notes electrocution jolts of electricity to the body resulting from contact with exposed conductors; these can result in anything from mild tingling to heart lLadders contacting power lines cause 9% of electrocutions. lIn another 5% of electrocution deaths, victims contacted highvoltage power lines, including train track high-voltage lines. electrical safety lPower tools are responsible for 9% of electrocution deaths annually. household electricity lLandscaping, gardening and farming equipment cause 7% of electrocutions each year. attack or death make sure to use safely—don’t overload sockets, don’t use frayed cords, use GFCIs, be careful of outdoor power lines; power tools and all appliances carry risks of electrocution if not The Five Most Common Electrical Hazards Found in Households used properly electricity injuries 1. overloaded electrical systems 2. wiring hazards, including old and improperly installed wiring 3. misuse of surge protectors, power strips and extension cords 4. contact with power lines 5. contact with electricity in large and small home appliances cause 4,000 injuries and Continued on the next page Source: <http://www.cpsc.gov> Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media 400 deaths every year 7.4-7 Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters LESSON 7.4 ELECTRICAL SAFETY CONTINUED 5 of 14 Electrical Fires Uncontrolled electricity flow or improper insulation where the wire is in contact with flammable material can lead to fire. Be careful not to overload outlets. If you plug too many appliances into a single outlet, too much current can be drawn from the outlet, potentially leading to fire. Electrical Shock Exposed wires or other conductors that come into contact with the body can produce electrical shocks, which can range anywhere from a faint tingle to severe burns, heart attack or death. If you see somebody “frozen” to an electrical current, immediately shut off the current. If that is not possible, use a wooden board or other non-conducting material to push the person away from the current. General Electricity Safety Make sure never to run cords under or near flammable objects in the house, like rugs or carpets. Make sure that all of the appliances and equipment you are using is in working order, without any cracked insulation or frayed ends. Never put anything other than a plug or a plastic protector in any outlet; this will lead to a direct flow of the current to the person touching the conductor. Always cover outlets with plastic protectors if children can reach them. Do not use electrical appliances in the bathtub or while you are wet: dropping a hair dryer in the bathtub could be fatal. GFCIs Wherever possible install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). These special outlets automatically cut the flow of electricity to a circuit when they detect a ground fault or electrical surge. Before the invention and use of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), nearly 800 people died annually from household electrocutions. Currently, fewer than 200 people die annually from household electrocutions. Just like smoke alarms, GFCIs should be tested on a regular basis to make certain they are working properly. GFCI outlet Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters 7.4-8 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media LESSON 7.4 Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters CHEMICAL AND HOUSEHOLD POISONS 6 of 14 T hough you might not expect it, many common chemicals found around the house are toxic and dangerous. Household cleaners in particular must be handled with caution. Many require the use of gloves and eye protection to avoid contact burns. All require sufficient ventilation to avoid toxic fumes. All household chemicals must be properly stored away from heat and away from children and pets. Quick Notes carbon monoxide Common toxic household chemicals include: a highly toxic by-product of gas engines, wood- Ammonia Chlorine bleach Drain cleaners Oven cleaners Pesticides Paints A volatile chemical found in some glass and window cleaners, urine and some paints. It can damage your eyes, skin and respiratory tract. and gas-burning stoves A strongly corrosive chemical that can damage skin, eyes and respiratory tract. It is used as a disinfectant and is found in many household products. A stronger form of chlorine-based bleach is often used in pool cleaners. a naturally occurring gas Cleaners used to clear up clogged drains; they often contain strong chemicals such as lye, hydrochloric acid or trichlorethane. NEVER MIX these two Cause burns to skin and eyes on contact. Contain lye. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, mucous membranes and clothing. Do not ingest. Avoid breathing spray mist. Often contain a variety of toxic and potentially lethal chemicals. Must be handled with care. Oil-based paints produce fumes that can damage lungs, eyes and skin. Spray paints are easy to inhale if not used in a properly ventilated place. Polyurethane Used to seal wood floors. It emits toxic fumes and is flammable. Glues and fixatives May be harmful if inhaled. Liquid or vapor may cause irritation of nose, throat and lungs. Some forms of “super” glue bond skin and eyelids instantly. radon gas that causes lung cancer. Tests kits are available. ammonia + bleach chemicals! It produces a toxic gas that can be deadly. Th e Na tio na l Ins tit ut e of He alt h ha s an Int er ne t da ta ba se fo r ho us eh old pr od uc ts inf or ma tio n at <h tt p: // ww w. ho us eh ol dp ro du ct s. nl m .n ih .g ov >. Continued on the next page Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media 7.4-9 Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters LESSON 7.4 CHEMICAL AND HOUSEHOLD POISONS CONTINUED 7 of 14 CAUTION! Never Mix These Chemicals! lAmmonia and bleach. Mixing these two chemicals creates toxic and potentially lethal vapors. lBleach and acids (including vinegar). Mixing bleach with any acids produces chlorine gas, which can irritate the skin and respiratory tract. In high doses, this combination can result in death. lDifferent brands of one type of product. Often they have different active ingredients that create toxic reactions. I f somebody is exposed to a poisonous gas, immediately remove the source, ventilate the room and call 911. Carbon Monoxide or Carbon monoxide detect Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless toxic gas. At low levels, carbon monoxide can cause flu-like symptoms, including headache, dizziness, fatigue and nausea. At higher levels, carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal. Carbon monoxide can come from gas-fired appliances, charcoal grills, wood-burning furnaces or fireplaces and motor vehicles. Because carbon monoxide is impossible to smell or see, it is essential that you install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and ensure adequate ventilation when working with a potential source of carbon monoxide. If a carbon monoxide alarm goes off, immediately open doors and windows and turn off all possible sources. If anyone is feeling ill, evacuate the home and call 911 for help. Radon Gas Throughout the United States, radon gas occurs naturally from the decay of radium in the soil. Radon gas trapped indoors is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. (smoking is #1) and causes about 20,000 deaths each year. You cannot see, smell or taste radon gas. Higher levels accumulate inside houses when windows are closed. The Surgeon General recommends that all houses be tested for radon gas using test kits that are available through hardware stores. Radon gas trapped inside the house can be abated with ventilation systems. Radon test kit Source: <http://www.epa.gov/radon> Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters 7.4-10 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media LESSON 7.4 Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters NUCLEAR RADIATION AND CHEMICAL POISONING 8 of 14 N uclear power plant reactor accidents, the release of toxic industrial emissions into the air and water, accidents while transporting hazardous materials and even terrorist attacks using chemicals or nuclear weapons are all potential risks to our safety. These events are referred to as technological disasters because they arise from the misuse of high-tech facilities and materials. Usually, very little warning precedes them. In some cases, people do not learn of exposure to toxins until years later, when symptoms become evident. Quick Notes nuclear radiation a by-product of nuclear reactors, including power Nuclear Radiation plants and nuclear bombs. Although nuclear power plants are closely regulated and monitored, it is possible that an accident could happen. Local state and government agencies are required to have emergency response plans. Low levels cause burns, The danger from a nuclear event is emitted radiation, which can be inhaled or ingested without noticing. Radiation has a cumulative effect: the more you have been exposed to, the worse the symptoms will be. Low levels of radiation can cause burns and damage internal organs; higher levels cause death; longterm low-level exposure causes cancer. To minimize exposure to radiation, there are three things to put between you and the source: and death. accidents, particularly l distance cancer; high levels cause radiation poisoning chemical poisoning accidents there are many types of chemical poisoning during transportation l shielding (heavy, dense materials) ltime (because radioactivity loses its strength fairly quickly) of hazardous materials or accidental release of industrial toxins Chemical Dangers Chemicals are used everywhere, in all parts of the country and in many different industries. Accidental spills or leakage can occur during manufacturing, storage, transportation or disposal. Chemical spills can be harmful to both people and the environment. If there is release of hazardous chemicals in your area, listen to the news for information and instructions from the police or other authorities. Stay away from the area. Remember that you cannot always see or smell the chemicals. Evacuate if you are told to do so. If you are outside when the release occurs, try to go uphill or upwind of the dangerous area. If you are in a motor vehicle, close all windows and air vents; when possible, stop and find shelter in a building. If you are told to stay indoors, close all doors and windows and turn off all air conditioners. Go into an above-ground shelter room with the fewest number of openings to the outside. Seal the room by covering all cracks with plastic and duct tape. Use rags to fill holes and cracks in the room (such as those around pipes). Continued on the next page Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media 7.4-11 Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters LESSON 7.4 NUCLEAR RADIATION AND CHEMICAL POISONING CONTINUED 9 of 14 A lthough there has not been a successful foreign terrorist attack in the United States since September 11, 2001, we remain at risk for the types of attacks that have happened elsewhere in the world, from poison gas to conventional bombs to “dirty” bombs that release radiation to potential nuclear bombs. The U.S. government has established the Department of Homeland Security to coordinate all federal and state law enforcement efforts to protect us from terrorist attack. See <http://www.dhs.gov/index.shtm> for up-to-date information on alerts, advisories and safety guidelines for dealing with potential terrorist attacks. Homeland Security Advisory System The Homeland Security Advisory System is a color-coded system designed to alert the public to levels of perceived threat from terrorists. There are five levels to the system: severe, high, elevated, guarded and low. To learn more about the Homeland Security Advisory System and other methods of disaster management, go to <http://www.DisasterHelp.gov>. Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters 7.4-12 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media LESSON 7.4 Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters AVALANCHES, LANDSLIDES, EARTHQUAKES & VOLCANOES 10 of 14 S ome natural disasters are not directly related to weather conditions (See Lesson 7.3) but are due to other geological factors. For example, if you live in an area of the country that is located on a fault line, you may experience earthquakes. Natural disasters are events that occur outside human control and threaten lives and property. Sometimes we can predict natural disasters by examining historical or regional patterns. Events such as landslides, mudslides, earthquakes and volcano activity affect thousands of people every year. Quick Notes avalanche/landslide/ mudslide fast downhill movement Avalanches and Landslides of snow, earth or mud Avalanches and landslides are similar phenomena. Each is triggered when gravity and shifting conditions cause masses of snow, rock, earth, mud or other debris to move down a slope. An avalanche can occur in any snowy, mountainous terrain. Landslides occur all around the United States. A mudslide or debris slide occurs when large quantities of water accumulate on the ground due to rainfall or snowmelt, changing the earth into a flowing river of mud. Avalanche, landslides and mudslides can occur at great speeds (from 20 to 225 mph) with little or no warning. earthquake shaking or trembling of the earth due to tectonic shift or volcanic activity volcano release of molten rock Watch for these signs of danger: through the earth’s surface lnew cracks appearing in the ground or in the plaster of buildings natural disasters l water seeping through the ground in new locations human control and threaten l fences and trees beginning to move l a deep rumbling sound lthe ground beginning to slope or move in one direction events that occur outside lives and property What to do if you encounter an avalanche, landslide or mudslide: lMove away as quickly as possible. If you are caught in the slide, curl into a ball and protect your head with your arms. lDo not try to go against the slide— go with it. You may be able to “swim” through it. Mudslide Continued on the next page Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media 7.4-13 Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters LESSON 7.4 AVALANCHES, LANDSLIDES, EARTHQUAKES & VOLCANOES CONT. 11 of 14 lAfterwards, move away from the slide area; further slides are possible. Check for trapped or injured people without re-entering the danger area. Watch for tangential dangers like broken electrical or gas lines and damaged roadways. lCall 911 if possible. lAvoidance is the best way to escape a slide. Be aware of your surroundings. Follow posted warnings. lNever ski or hike alone. Earthquake damage Earthquakes n earthquake is a shaking or trembling movement of the earth caused by volcanic or tectonic forces. A Sometimes the movement is gradual, while other times it is brief, intense and destructive. lSome areas are much more prone to earthquakes than others because they are near “fault lines” where subterranean tectonic plates meet. You should know whether you live in an earthquake-prone area. lIt is impossible to know exactly when an earthquake will happen, although scientists have developed models for predicting earthquakes with greater accuracy. If you live in an earthquake area, you should take the following precautions for general readiness: repair defective electric wiring in your house; place heavy or delicate objects on the ground or on low shelves; install safety latches to keep kitchen cabinets closed to prevent broken glass and household chemical spills. lDuring an earthquake: stay indoors; take cover under a sturdy desk, table or against an inside wall; move away from anything that could fall, including lights; stay inside until the shaking stops and it is clearly safe to move. If you are outside, stay there and move away from anything that could fall on you, including electrical wires and trees. Continued on the next page Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters 7.4-14 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media LESSON 7.4 Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters AVALANCHES, LANDSLIDES, EARTHQUAKES & VOLCANOES CONT. 12 of 14 lBe prepared for aftershocks—secondary shockwaves that follow the main earthquake. If you are near the shore, be aware of possible tsunamis (large tidal waves) caused by earthquakes. lFollow emergency alert information and instructions from the authorities. lCheck for ruptured gas or electrical lines and stay clear of dangerous conditions like failing debris and fire. Tsunami Volcanoes A volcano is a vent in the earth through which molten rock escapes to the surface. Eruptions occur when too much pressure builds up. They can be quiet or explosive. Dangers associated with volcanoes include hot lava flows, volcanic ash that can build up causing roofs to collapse and the release of toxic gases. Volcano Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media lDuring an eruption, you should evacuate immediately. Avoid low-lying areas and be aware of possible mudflows. lTo protect from ash and other toxic gases, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and use a dust mask or cloth to help with breathing. Stay inside unless the roof is in danger of collapsing. Close all windows and doors; seal ventilation into the house including air conditioning. lAvoid driving unless absolutely necessary. lFollow emergency alert information and instructions from the authorities. 7.4-15 Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters LESSON 7.4 NATURAL DISASTERS AND MENTAL HEALTH 13 of 14 D Quick Notes post-traumatic stress disorder a condition that can develop after exposure to a life-threatening event. Its symptoms may include flashbacks, insomnia and feelings of isolation, anger, sadness and depression Module 7—Injury and Prevention isasters are not only physically dangerous; survivors’ mental health is often impacted as well, ranging from minor emotional hardships to full-blown post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a condition that can develop after exposure to a life-threatening event that may or may not have caused physical injury. The generative event can be anything from an accident to an earthquake to war. Symptoms may include flashbacks (reliving the event), trouble sleeping, feelings of isolation, anger, sadness and depression. PTSD can begin soon after the trigger event or months afterwards. If you suspect you or someone you know has post-traumatic stress disorder, seek professional help. Talking to a therapist can be an effective way to treat this. After a traumatic event, people may feel many different emotions—relief, numbness, loss, anger, grief, fear, guilt and horror at the events that have transpired. Emotional recovery may take many months, even years. lKnow that it will take time for you to start to feel better both physically and mentally. Healing is not a fast process. You may experience physical health consequences related to anxiety, insomnia and depression. Psychological symptoms may persist for many years. lTalk to somebody about your feelings, whether it is a physician, family member, friend or teacher. lIt is common to feel helpless, angry, anxious or aggressive. lIt is not unusual to have bad dreams about the event, have trouble sleeping or experience a loss of appetite. These are all normal reactions to a traumatic event. lTry to develop a set routine and follow it as much as possible. It is important not to let the memory of the event influence your life for years to come. lMake sure to stay active. Exercise and participate in community events. Do not isolate yourself from others. lConsider seeking professional help if the feelings listed above continue to persist. lBe aware that the incidence of suicide increases significantly for all age groups and both sexes after a natural disaster. LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters 7.4-16 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media LESSON 7.4 Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters STUDY POINTS 14 of 14 N o t e t o s e lf .. . S T U D Y t h is ! 1. Most residential fires occur in homes that are not equipped with working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms save lives. 2. Carbon monoxide is an invisible and odorless toxic gas that can be deadly in high quantities. It is important to have carbon monoxide detectors and adequate ventilation to avoid buildup. 3.It is important to listen to the radio and news for instructions when dealing with disasters such as radiation leaks or chemical spills. They can strike with little warning and immediate evacuation may be necessary. 4. Never mix ammonia and bleach. It produces a toxic gas that can be deadly, particularly in small, enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces. 5.Smoke can be nearly as dangerous as the fire itself. Hot air can scald the respiratory tract and smoke can cause asphyxiation. It is important to stay low to the ground to get fresh air. 6. Landslides, mudslides and avalanches can strike quickly and without warning. Be careful of unstable areas when re-entering danger areas, even if the main event seems to have passed. 7.After a traumatic event, it is best to talk to someone, whether it is a friend, family member, teacher or therapist. Try to establish a regular routine and use a support system to deal with the emotional difficulties of resuming a normal life. 8.During an earthquake, stay inside and take cover under a small, sturdy desk or table. Avoid windows and things that are likely to fall down. Be prepared for aftershocks—secondary shocks that strike after the main event. End of LESSON 7.4 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media 7.4-17 Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters LESSON 7.4 NOTES Module 7—Injury and Prevention LESSON 7.4— Fire Safety, Chemical Dangers & Natural Disasters 7.4-18 Essential Health Copyright © Human Relations Media