Why can not you extinguish burning kerosene with water? What is dangerous and what rules must be followed in the event of a fire

Kerosene is an organic compound that is a fractional product obtained as a result of refining. The word "kerosene" is derived from the Greek "keros", meaning "wax". This term ("kerosene") was introduced into production by the British in the era of growth in 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 you can not put out the burning kerosene with water.

In the XIX century, kerosene was the most popular product for lighting. At first kerosene lamps were a luxury item that only the nobility could afford. Then the kerosene lamps turned into a necessity, which was in every house.

Today, kerosene is used for various household needs as a motor fuel, for heating and lighting the room, as a fuel for construction equipment and diesel engines. Very often the cause of the fire is left unattended kerosene lamp or a clear violation of safety in the operation of household appliances, fuel for which is kerosene.

Why can not you extinguish burning kerosene with water?

The question "why it is impossible to extinguish burning kerosene with water" is often asked by people unfamiliar with the basic physical properties of this highly flammable substance. Despite the fact that the most common means of fighting the fire is water, to use it in order to bring down the flames from burning kerosene, absolutely not.

How can I extinguish 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 combustion. In this case, there is a danger of spreading it in different directions, which can provoke an increase in the fire area.

Why can not you extinguish burning kerosene with water? Because the main goal that needs to be achieved when eliminating fire is to block the access of oxygen to an open flame. And this can not be achieved through water.

To extinguish spilled burning kerosene it is possible by means of the following improvised means:

• sand;
• Lumps of earth;
• Dense tissue (you can moisten it with water);
• Fire extinguishers (preferably).

In order to effectively extinguish the fire, you need to shoot down the flames, pouring the above substances from above, using a steel baking sheet, plywood sheet, shovel, metal scoop, etc. At the same time, the 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.

In the event of an ignition caused by the ignition of spilled kerosene, you should immediately call a fire brigade, even if you have coped with it on your own. Fire can go unnoticed in the voids under the floors and after a while flare up with more force.

There are also reasons why you can not put kerosene out with water - a flame can spread to surrounding objects, especially if the fire occurs in a garage or apartment. A smoldering object located in an inaccessible place for audit may cause a fire to resume.

If there is a danger of ignition of electrical networks located in the immediate vicinity of the source of ignition, the wiring should be disconnected as soon as possible. If the wires are lit up to this point, then the fire can be brought down by dry sand, using a shovel or scoop for this.

In order to avoid a fire, it is necessary to observe all precautions when using appliances operating on kerosene, to exclude work in close proximity to open sources of fire. Never operate damaged or defective appliances.