Methods of firefighting:

Firefighting involves different approaches that are used depending on the type and extent of the fire. The aim is to stop the spread of the fire and extinguish the source of the fire, using different physical and chemical principles.

1. Water as an extinguishing agent

Water is the most commonly used extinguishing agent and acts through several mechanisms:

•          Cooling: Water reduces the temperature of the source of the fire and reduces the evaporation of flammable materials. This prevents the creation of flammable fumes that could further fuel the fire.

•          Disadvantages:

•          Electrical short circuits can occur due to the use of water, which causes additional damage.

•          The water damage in surrounding areas often exceeds the damage caused by the fire.

Additives such as detergents or gelling agents can increase the effectiveness of water in special applications.

2. Cover the source of the fire

Another method of firefighting is to cover the source of the fire with materials such as extinguishing powder, sand or granules. These prevent oxygen from entering the fire and suffocate the flames.

•          Use of manual fire extinguishers: This method is often used for smaller fires. However, the extinguishing material can cause contamination that causes considerable damage.

3. Foaming of substances

Foaming substances near the source of the fire is a variant of covering. The foam forms an insulating layer that blocks both oxygen supply and heat transfer.

4. Generating a Pressure Wave

The blowing out of flames by means of pressure waves is a special method that is only practical for a few fires. It is particularly suitable for smaller or controlled fires.

5. Introduction of non-combustible gases

By introducing non-combustible gases such as carbon dioxide, the oxygen content at the source of the fire is reduced, which suffocates the fire.

•          Advantages: This method is considered gentle and does not cause any additional damage.

•          Disadvantages:

•          The distribution of extinguishing gases to the source of the fire is often difficult.

•          In large fires with strong air currents, this method can be ineffective.

Result

The choice of the appropriate extinguishing method depends on the type of fire, the local conditions and the means available. While water is preferred due to its universal availability and effectiveness, alternative methods such as foam, powder or gases are more effective in specific situations. However, each method has its advantages and disadvantages, especially with regard to possible consequential damage caused by extinguishing agents or their limited applicability in certain fire scenarios.