corrugated cardboard prodution Machine,Cartoon Box Making Machine,Corrugated Board Making Machine DONGGUANG CANGHAI PACKING MACHINE CO.,LTD , https://www.xtprintmachine.com
Underwriters Laboratories studies house fire
In a recent piece published by ABC7, there's an intriguing story about cutting-edge firefighting research taking place at Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) in Northbrook. The lab is exploring ways to enhance firefighting techniques and ultimately save lives and property.
Most residential fires are alarmingly swift and intense, giving individuals only about three minutes to evacuate safely once the alarm sounds. To address this pressing issue, UL's Firefighter Safety Research Institute is spearheading innovative studies aimed at extinguishing fires more effectively and swiftly.
The research is being conducted in a purpose-built warehouse in Northbrook, drawing scientists and firefighters from all over the country. In these controlled environments, they simulate real-life fire scenarios to better understand how fires spread and how to combat them most efficiently.
John Drengenberg, Consumer Safety Director at UL, explained that the lab is testing various methods of fire suppression. "It’s not as straightforward as simply spraying water everywhere," he noted. "We need to understand how fires propagate and adapt our strategies accordingly." Researchers are focusing on combining different types of suppression techniques to maximize efficiency.
One significant finding involves attic fires, which are becoming increasingly common due to modern insulation practices and external factors such as lightning strikes and electrical malfunctions. These fires often spread rapidly, leaving even less time for occupants to escape. In fact, the time to evacuate has dropped dramatically from 17 minutes to just 3-4 minutes, largely due to the prevalence of synthetic materials in homes today. These materials burn hotter and faster than traditional ones, making early detection and intervention crucial.
Steve Kerber, Director of the UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute, emphasized the importance of strategic water application. "It’s not about where you pour the water, but how you manage the flow to control the fire effectively," he stated. This involves meticulous planning and understanding the dynamics of each fire situation.
Additionally, fire prevention experts stress the importance of regular maintenance of electrical, HVAC, and chimney systems. Inspecting these critical areas can prevent potential hazards and reduce the risk of fire outbreaks. Understanding the heat source and potential dangers within a home is key to both firefighters and residents alike.
While the full findings of this firefighting study may take several months to compile, UL plans to distribute the results nationwide to fire departments. This research holds the promise of transforming firefighting practices and enhancing safety measures across the country.
Thanks for sharing, Dan! Your contribution helps keep us informed about vital advancements in fire safety and prevention.