On New Year's Eve, the risk of fire increases. Fireworks, firecrackers, candles, many powerful electrical devices operating simultaneously, and often alcohol create a mix that can quickly spiral out of control. It's worth welcoming the new year responsibly and equipping yourself with a good fire extinguisher. In this guide, we explain which fire extinguisher will be useful at home and in the garden, and where to keep it on New Year's Eve so that it is at hand in case of danger.
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What fire hazards does New Year's Eve bring?
During New Year's Eve celebrations, there are at least several potential sources of fire.
- Fireworks and firecrackers — pyrotechnic materials are open sources of fire with flying burning fragments, capable of igniting dry vegetation, plastic decorations, or wooden garden furniture. County fire brigades inform every year about safety rules. The basic rule is the prohibition of igniting fireworks and firecrackers in crowded places and near buildings, trees, and flammable objects.
- Open flames in the house — New Year's Eve parties are typically accompanied by candles, sparklers, or the warmth of a classic fireplace. Cigarettes are often smoked, butts are not properly extinguished, and matches and lighters are left in random places, easily accessible to children. The risk of uncontrolled fire increases especially when combined with alcohol.
- Cooking and frying — organizing a New Year's Eve party usually involves preparing a large amount of food. Often, products require deep frying. It takes less than 3 minutes for oil left in a pot or pan to heat up to 200°C and start burning. Extinguishing burning oil requires a special approach. When doused with water, the mixture explodes, and the fire spreads like a cloud to everything nearby.
- Overloading the electrical system — spectacular lighting decorations, additional sound systems, heaters, or warmers can overload the system or lead to overheating of devices and equipment.
Awareness of possible scenarios motivates one to take a closer look at their fire protection system. A modern fire protection installation in a house consists of smoke, temperature, and carbon monoxide detectors connected to an alarm panel, which in case of danger activates sound and light signals and – optionally – notifies the appropriate services. It's worth taking care of additional security measures, such as fire extinguishers and fire sprays, especially in rooms with an increased risk of fire, e.g., in the boiler room, kitchen, or living room with a fireplace.
What fire extinguishers are suitable for home and garden?
There are universal and specialized fire extinguishers. The most popular type is the universal powder extinguisher for extinguishing fires of group A (solid bodies), B (flammable liquids), and C (flammable gases) as well as electrical devices under voltage up to 1000V. The extinguishing agent is powder ejected using compressed gas. Powder extinguishers work great in homes and other residential buildings, as well as in cars, caravans, and boats. It's worth having them in the garden or on the plot where barbecues or bonfires are held, especially during New Year's Eve night.
A powder extinguisher should not be used to extinguish burning oils and fats! Remember to have the equipment checked annually at an authorized fire extinguisher service.
In homes and gardens, the following are also used:
- foam extinguishers – great for extinguishing fires of class A and B;
- snow extinguishers – effective for extinguishing fires of group B and C and electrical devices up to 1000 V, especially electronics and precision machines;
- fat extinguishers – designed for extinguishing fires of class F, particularly useful in kitchens before New Year's Eve.
Where to place the fire extinguisher on New Year's Eve?
It can be confidently said that good placement of fire extinguishers is at least half the success. Even the most modern extinguisher will do little good if it is hidden in a closed basement, while a fire spreads, for example, in the kitchen. Therefore, it is important to ensure (not only on New Year's Eve) easy accessibility and good visibility of the extinguisher. Do not take it to the basement or attic, do not hide it behind doors or in a closet, because in case of fire, only you will know where it is. The extinguisher should be on the same floor. If you plan to do intensive cooking and frying before the New Year's Eve party, keep a class F extinguisher within reach in the kitchen. Outside, prepare a powder extinguisher, especially if you plan to have fireworks displays on the plot. It is best to place it near the area where firecrackers will be ignited. Remember to inform every party participant where the individual extinguishers are located.
Do you need to choose fire equipment for your home, garden, or company? Contact us. We will advise you!
FAQ
1. Is a fire extinguisher in the house mandatory?
No, there is no legal obligation to have a fire extinguisher in a single-family house, but it is strongly recommended for safety.
2. What fire extinguisher should I buy for New Year's Eve?
The best choice is a universal powder extinguisher for extinguishing fires of class A, B, and C.
3. Can a powder extinguisher be used to extinguish burning oil?
No, because the powder can cause splashing of burning fat, and the fire can quickly return. A special class F extinguisher should be used.
4. Where is the best place to hang the extinguisher before the New Year's Eve party?
In a visible and easily accessible place, such as a hall, corridor, entrance to a room, cooking area in the kitchen, or garden in case of fireworks displays.
5. Does a fire extinguisher have an expiration date?
Yes. For example, the expiration date of a powder extinguisher in a car is 5 years from the date of manufacture. During this period, the manufacturer guarantees its proper functioning.