Kerosene is an organic compound, which is a fractional product obtained as a result of oil refining. The word "kerosene" is derived from the Greek "keros", meaning "wax". This term ("kerosene") was introduced into production by the British in an era of rising production.
Physical properties of kerosene
The physical properties of kerosene are such that it is lighter than water - when mixed with it, it does not dissolve, but forms oily films floating on the surface. This is the main reason why it is impossible to extinguish burning kerosene with water.
In the XIX century, kerosene was the most sought-after product for lighting. At first, kerosene lamps were a luxury item that only one could afford. Then, kerosene lamps turned into an essential item, which was in every house.
Today, kerosene is used for various household needs as motor fuel, for heating and lighting of a room, as fuel for construction vehicles and diesel engines. Very often, the cause of the fire is an unattended kerosene lamp or a clear violation of safety precautions when operating household appliances fueled by kerosene.
Why can not I extinguish burning kerosene with water?
The question "why you can not put out burning kerosene with water" is often asked by people unfamiliar with the basic physical properties of this flammable substance. Despite the fact that the most common means of fighting fire is water, it is absolutely impossible to use it in order to bring down the flame from burning kerosene.
How can I put out burning kerosene?
Kerosene is a flammable liquid. It is worth noting that kerosene does not extinguish water! In addition, this substance is lighter than water - and if the burning kerosene is poured with water, it will float to its surface, without stopping the burning. In this case, there is a danger of spreading it in different directions, which can provoke an increase in the area of the fire.
Why can not I extinguish burning kerosene with water? Because the main goal that needs to be achieved when eliminating the fire is to block the access of oxygen to an open flame. And this cannot be achieved through water.
You can extinguish the spilled burning kerosene using the following improvised means:
- sand;
- clods of earth;
- dense fabric (you can moisten it with water);
- fire extinguishers (preferred).
In order to effectively extinguish a fire, you need to bring down the flame, pouring the above substances from above, using a steel baking sheet, plywood sheet, shovel, metal scoop, etc. In this case, combustible vapors cease to be released when the entire surface of the burning kerosene is completely covered with a sufficient layer of sand or earth.
If there is a fire caused by the ignition of spilled kerosene, immediately call a fire brigade, even if you coped with it on your own. Fire can go unnoticed in the voids under the floors and after some time flare up with more force.
There are other reasons why you can not put out kerosene with water - the flame can spread to surrounding objects, especially if a fire occurs in a garage or apartment. A smoldering object located in a place inaccessible to revision may cause a fire to resume.
If there is a danger of ignition of electrical networks located in close proximity to the source of ignition, then the wiring should be de-energized as quickly as possible. If the wires caught fire up to this point, then the fire can be brought down with dry sand, using a shovel or dustpan for this.
In order to avoid a fire, it is necessary to observe all safety measures when using devices running on kerosene, to exclude work in the immediate vicinity with open sources of fire. Never use damaged or defective appliances.