How to Use Fire Wisely

Fire has been part of the Earth system for over 350 million years. It has played a major role in human development, cooking and landscape management as well as in industrial applications over more recent centuries. Fire provides many important benefits and can be a positive tool for environmental sustainability but it can also cause damage. It is essential that we use fire wisely.

When we gaze upon the hypnotic dancing flames of a wood-burning fireplace or gas or electric fires it may seem like it is solid and real, but it is actually an aura that is not a physical substance. It is a chemical reaction of a combination of gases; it contains oxygen and other volatile substances that are ignited by heat to produce light, heat and smoke.

The most common causes of fires in homes and businesses are due to human error. Faulty equipment, over-using appliances and incorrectly disposing of waste can all lead to a fire.

Combustible materials that build up in the home or workplace are another significant contributor to fires. This can include paper, wood and cardboard that is stored incorrectly or not disposed of on a regular basis. Combustible chemicals and oils that are used in some processes can also contribute to a fire.

If a fire does occur in your home, it is important to follow the family emergency communication plan and evacuate the house immediately. If you are unable to escape, call emergency services. Staying calm and evacuating quickly will help prevent further damage to your home or injury to you.

After a fire occurs, it is important to contact your insurance company and to take immediate steps to start cleaning up. It is also crucial to check on vulnerable members of your community, such as elderly people or young children who may need assistance.

In the workplace, a fire can often be started by combustible materials that build up in the workplace or by faulty electrical items. Keeping a workplace clean and organised will reduce the risk of a fire occurring. It is also important to report any faulty machinery or items to your supervisor or HR team as soon as possible to reduce the risk of an accident leading to a fire.

In natural environments, fire plays a crucial role in biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. When a forest fire breaks out, what may appear to be devastation can actually turn into a panorama of new life as the ashes are converted to soil nutrients and help seedlings grow more quickly. The burning of plant matter also helps to remove competition for sunlight and moisture and it is the only way to get some plants to grow in arid conditions. When a wildfire is out of control, it can affect local water supply and contribute to air pollution. However, controlled burns can improve wildlife habitat and provide recreational opportunities in national parks.