One of the biggest threats after an earthquake is the risk of fire!

Drawing attention to the fire hazard that may occur immediately after the earthquake and the precautions to be taken, OHS Specialist Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan explained that the risk of fire after an earthquake can be caused by natural gas leaks and explosions, electrical short circuits, chemical leaks, vehicle fires and heating systems.

Stating that the early warning system, which is still used in 6 countries in the world, should be expanded in our country, including residences, Dr. Uçan said that "In the time period gained in this way; Gas can be cut off from the natural gas valve in houses, the main entrance doors and doors to the fire escapes can be opened, shoes can be worn and an earthquake bag can be taken."

Üsküdar University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Head of Occupational Health and Safety Department, Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan drew attention to the fire danger that may occur immediately after the earthquake and listed the precautions to be taken.

The importance of early warning systems...

Stating that the early warning system, which is still used in 6 countries in the world, should be expanded in our country, including residences, Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan said that "In the time period gained in this way; Gas can be cut off from the natural gas valve in houses, the main entrance doors and doors to the fire escapes can be opened, shoes can be worn and an earthquake bag can be taken."

Where can a fire break out after an earthquake?

Explaining that the risk of fire after an earthquake can be caused by natural gas leaks and explosions, electrical short circuits, chemical leaks, vehicle fires and heating systems, Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan noted that gas leakage may occur due to the breakage of pipelines during an earthquake, and that although it is known that institutions such as IGDAS close the main valves with the earthquake detection system, systems that can automatically cut off the gas flow inside the building should be installed, otherwise, the gas leaking inside the building may cause an explosion and fire with a spark.

Elektrikli araç yangınlarının söndürülmesi son derece zor

Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan continued as follows:

"Electrical short circuits; Damage to buildings and transformers can lead to a short circuit, which can lead to a fire. Chemical leaks; Tipping or leakage of flammable and explosive materials in industrial areas poses serious fire risks. Vehicle fires; Vehicles colliding during an earthquake or overturned electric vehicles can cause a fire. Electric vehicle fires are extremely difficult to extinguish. Heating systems; systems such as water heaters, combi boilers, stoves or LPG cylinders may tip over and cause a fire."

What kind of scenario can we encounter?

Pointing out that gas leaks may occur in many places in the first hours after the earthquake, Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan stated that the generators that are activated with the power cuts increase the risk of sparks.

Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan said that "The explosion of natural gas leaking from the gas lines under the debris with a spark can cause fires in large areas. Multiple fires in densely built-up areas at the same time can make it difficult for the fire department to reach the scene. Teams that can intervene in 7 minutes under normal conditions may not be able to access due to post-earthquake destruction. This can lead to the fires growing and turning into a disaster.”

Precautions to be taken against the risk of fire

Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan also listed the precautions to be taken against the risk of fire before the earthquake as follows:

"Automatic gas shut-off valves should be installed in residences and workplaces.

Electricity and natural gas installations should be inspected regularly.

Detailed emergency plans should be prepared for industrial facilities.

The rapid gas cut-off systems of institutions such as Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) and IGDAS should be regularly tested and expanded.

Fire extinguishing equipment should be available in neighborhood-based gathering areas.

Public awareness should be raised through fire drills."

What to do in case of fire:

Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan also listed the things to be done in case of fire after the earthquake as follows:

"If you smell gas, sparking movements should be avoided (such as opening a key, using a phone...).

The building should be abandoned quickly and in an orderly manner.

The natural gas valve and electrical fuse must be turned off.

Small fires should be intervened with a fire extinguisher, and in case of large fires, the fire brigade should be informed and moved away. The assembly area should be reached, and the information should be shared with the authorities."

Recommendations against the risk of fire

Asst. Prof. Rüştü Uçan also made suggestions against the risk of fire and concluded his remarks as follows: "Fire extinguishers and fire blankets should be kept in every house, and how to use them should be learned. The earthquake bag should include a flashlight, whistle, lighter and a small fire blanket. What to do in case of emergency in the family should be planned. Volunteer disaster teams should be formed in the neighborhoods.”

 

Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)