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87-663: On December 3, 1999, six firefighters in Worcester, Massachusetts were killed in the Worcester Cold Storage and Warehouse fire , a massive fire set by squatters . Among the dead was the cousin of comedian Denis Leary , Firefighter Jerry Lucey, and his close childhood friend, Lt. Tommy Spencer. In response, the comedian founded the Leary Firefighters Foundation, which has since distributed over $ 2.5 million ( USD ) to fire departments in

174-756: A heat engine . Other times, the heat itself is valued for warmth, cooking , or industrial processes, as well as the illumination that accompanies combustion . Fuels are also used in the cells of organisms in a process known as cellular respiration , where organic molecules are oxidized to release usable energy. Hydrocarbons and related organic molecules are by far the most common source of fuel used by humans, but other substances, including radioactive metals, are also utilized. Fuels are contrasted with other substances or devices storing potential energy , such as those that directly release electrical energy (such as batteries and capacitors ) or mechanical energy (such as flywheels , springs, compressed air, or water in

261-400: A nuclear fission reactor ; nuclear fuel can refer to the material or to physical objects (for example fuel bundles composed of fuel rods ) composed of the fuel material, perhaps mixed with structural, neutron moderating , or neutron reflecting materials. When some of these fuels are struck by neutrons, they are in turn capable of emitting neutrons when they break apart. This makes possible

348-412: A "fire-resistant" building is designed to limit fire to a small area or floor. Other floors can be safe by preventing smoke inhalation and damage. All buildings suspected or on fire must be evacuated, regardless of fire rating. When fire departments respond to structure fires, the priorities are life safety, incident stabilization, and property conservation. Some tactics used to achieve positive results at

435-454: A bright yellow reflective vest over their turnout coats if they have to work on a public road, to make them more visible to passing drivers. Firefighters have occasionally been assaulted by members of the public while responding to calls. These kinds of attacks can cause firefighters to fear for their safety when responding to specific areas and may cause them to not have full focus on the situation which could result in injury to their selves or

522-455: A critical issue to monitor. Firefighter physiological status monitoring is showing promise in alerting EMS and commanders to the status of their people on the fire ground. Devices such as PASS device alert 10–20 seconds after a firefighter has stopped moving in a structure. Physiological status monitors measure a firefighter's vital sign status, fatigue and exertion levels and transmit this information over their voice radio. This technology allows

609-412: A daily basis, ~18% Firefighters experience PTSD due to WPV and 60% had at least one call where they had feared for their life or questioned their safety. While firefighters are generally responsible for managing hazardous materials in the environment, there is a great deal of risks that they face by doing so. Flame retardants are chemical products that are utilized to slow down or stop the spread of

696-529: A degree of early warning to physiological stress. These devices are similar to technology developed for Future Force Warrior and give a measure of exertion and fatigue. They also tell the people outside a building when they have stopped moving or fallen. This allows a supervisor to call in additional engines before the crew get exhausted and also gives an early warning to firefighters before they run out of air, as they may not be able to make voice calls over their radio. Current OSHA tables exist for heat injury and

783-687: A direct relationship between the number of hours spent fighting fires and lung cancer and leukemia mortality in firefighters. This link is a topic of continuing research in the medical community, as is cancer mortality in general among firefighters. In addition to epidemiological studies, mechanistic studies have used biomarkers to investigate exposures' effects on biological changes that could be related to cancer development. Several of these studies have found evidence of DNA damage , oxidative stress , and epigenetic changes related to firefighters' exposures. Firefighters regularly encounter carcinogenic materials and hazardous contaminants, which

870-426: A fire by reducing its intensity. While there are numerous benefits to flame retardant products in terms of the reduction of major fires, the components that make up these substances are extremely harmful. The most concerning materials that make up these products are PFAS chemicals. Studies linked PFAS exposure with health effects including major neurological defects and cancer. Long term exposure to these chemicals

957-411: A fire department responds to an emergency, two related priorities are life safety and stabilizing the incident. Part of this process is ensuring the customer's well-being from the time of dispatch until after the incident becomes stable. Some firefighting tactics may appear to be destructive, but often serve specific needs. For example, during ventilation , firefighters are forced to either open holes in

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1044-456: A firefighter (that has enough time to deploy the rope) a partially controlled exit out of an elevated window. Lack of a personal rescue rope is cited in the deaths of two New York City Firefighters, Lt. John Bellew and Lt. Curtis Meyran, who died after they jumped from the fourth floor of a burning apartment building in the Bronx. Of the four firefighters who jumped and survived, only one of them had

1131-459: A firefighter's risk. Historically, the fire service blamed poor firefighter physical condition for being the primary cause of cardiovascular related deaths. However, over the last 20 years, studies and research has indicated the toxic gasses put fire service personnel at significantly higher risk for cardiovascular related conditions and death. For instance, carbon monoxide , present in nearly all fire environments, and hydrogen cyanide , formed during

1218-403: A mixture of propane and butane , both of which are easily compressible gases under standard atmospheric conditions. It offers many of the advantages of compressed natural gas (CNG) but is denser than air, does not burn as cleanly, and is much more easily compressed. Commonly used for cooking and space heating, LP gas and compressed propane are seeing increased use in motorized vehicles. Propane

1305-495: A part of the SCBA to alert others when a firefighter stops moving for a specified period of time or manually operates the device. The PASS device sounds an alarm that can assist another firefighter ( firefighter assist and search team (FAST), or rapid intervention team (RIT), in locating the firefighter in distress. Firefighters often carry personal self-rescue ropes . The ropes are generally 30 feet (9.1 m) long and can provide

1392-436: A pivotal part of our contemporary society, with most countries in the world burning fossil fuels in order to produce power, but are falling out of favor due to the global warming and related effects that are caused by burning them. Currently the trend has been towards renewable fuels, such as biofuels like alcohols. Chemical fuels are substances that release energy by reacting with substances around them, most notably by

1479-488: A proven record for controlling and extinguishing unwanted fires. Many fire officials recommend that every building, including residences, have fire sprinkler systems. Correctly working sprinklers in a residence greatly reduce the risk of death from a fire. With the small rooms typical of a residence, one or two sprinklers can cover most rooms. In the United States, the housing industry trade groups have lobbied at

1566-425: A reservoir). The first known use of fuel was the combustion of firewood by Homo erectus nearly two million years ago. Throughout most of human history only fuels derived from plants or animal fat were used by humans. Charcoal , a wood derivative, has been used since at least 6,000 BCE for melting metals. It was only supplanted by coke , derived from coal, as European forests started to become depleted around

1653-573: A self-rescue rope. Since the incident, the Fire Department of New York City has issued self-rescue ropes to their firefighters. Heat injury is a major issue for firefighters as they wear insulated clothing and cannot shed the heat generated from physical exertion. Early detection of heat issues is critical to stop dehydration and heat stress becoming fatal. Early onset of heat stress affects cognitive function which combined with operating in dangerous environment makes heat stress and dehydration

1740-918: A self-sustaining chain reaction that releases energy at a controlled rate in a nuclear reactor , or at a very rapid uncontrolled rate in a nuclear weapon . The most common fissile nuclear fuels are uranium-235 ( U) and plutonium-239 ( Pu). The actions of mining, refining, purifying, using, and ultimately disposing of nuclear fuel together make up the nuclear fuel cycle . Not all types of nuclear fuels create energy from nuclear fission. Plutonium-238 and some other elements are used to produce small amounts of nuclear energy by radioactive decay in radioisotope thermoelectric generators and other types of atomic batteries . In contrast to fission, some light nuclides such as tritium ( H) can be used as fuel for nuclear fusion . This involves two or more nuclei combining into larger nuclei. Fuels that produce energy by this method are currently not utilized by humans, but they are

1827-466: A source of energy. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that fossil fuel prices will decline, with oil stabilizing around $ 75 to $ 80 per barrel as electric vehicle adoption surges and renewable energy expands. Additionally, the IEA anticipates a notable increase in liquefied natural gas capacity, enhancing Europe’s energy diversification. The amount of energy from different types of fuel depends on

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1914-448: A structure fire include scene size-up, door control, coordinated ventilation, and exterior attack prior to entry. When the first fire department arrives on-scene at a structure fire, scene size-up must occur to develop the appropriate strategy (offensive or defensive) and tactics.  With scene size-up, a risk assessment must also occur to determine the risks of making an interior fire attack.  When an incident's critical factors and

2001-443: A structure fire: Incident Priorities ·       Life safety – primary and secondary "All Clear(s)" (A/C) ·       Property conservation – "Loss Stopped" (L/S) ·       Post fire control firefighter decontamination (Decon) ·       Customer Stabilization* – Short term *Customer stabilization refers to customer service that fire departments provide during an emergency. When

2088-495: A unique set of strategies and tactics. In many countries such as Australia and the United States, these duties are mostly carried out by local volunteer firefighters . Wildfires have some ecological role in allowing new plants to grow, therefore in some cases they will be left to burn. Priorities in fighting wildfires include preventing the loss of life and property as well as ecological damage. Airports employ specialist firefighters to deal with potential ground emergencies. Due to

2175-516: A way to make heavy oil fractions usable as liquid fuels. Many liquid fuels play a primary role in transportation and the economy. Some common properties of liquid fuels are that they are easy to transport and can be handled easily. They are also relatively easy to use for all engineering applications and in home use. Fuels like kerosene are rationed in some countries, for example in government-subsidized shops in India for home use. Conventional diesel

2262-458: A wide variety of equipment for this purpose that include ladder trucks, pumper trucks, tanker trucks, fire hose, and fire extinguishers . While sometimes fires can be limited to small areas of a structure, wider collateral damage due to smoke, water and burning embers is common. Utility shutoff (such as gas and electricity) is typically an early priority for arriving fire crews. In addition, forcible entry may be required in order to gain access into

2349-618: A window, reveal backdraft situations before the firefighter enters the structure and is met with the circumstance head-on. Firefighter safety is the number one priority. Whenever possible during a structure fire, property is moved into the middle of a room and covered with a salvage cover, a heavy cloth-like tarp. Various steps such as retrieving and protecting valuables found during suppression or overhaul, evacuating water, and boarding windows and roofs can divert or prevent post-fire runoff. Wildfires (known in Australia as bushfires ) require

2436-487: Is structural collapse of a burning building (e.g. a wall, floor, ceiling, roof, or truss system ). Structural collapse, which often occurs without warning, may crush or trap firefighters inside the structure. To avoid loss of life, all on-duty firefighters should maintain two-way communication with the incident commander and be equipped with a personal alert safety system device (PASS) on all fire scenes and maintain radio communication on all incidents. Francis Brannigan

2523-495: Is a notable concern. While many hazardous chemicals used in fire-fighting materials, such as penta-bromdiphenyl ether have already been banned by the government, they are almost immediately replaced by a new substance with similar harmful effects. After banning penta-bromodiphenyl ether, chlorinated tris, chloroalkyl phospahtes, halogenated aryl esters, and tetrabromophthalate dio diester were used instead. While these chemicals are constantly changing with attempts to make it safer for

2610-665: Is an engineering control that can be used to avoid or minimize exposure to hazardous substances. When ventilation is insufficient or dust cannot be avoided, personal protective equipment such as N95 respirators can be used. Firefighting has long been associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes. In the United States, the most common cause of on-duty fatalities for firefighters is sudden cardiac death, accounting for approximately 45% of on duty US firefighter deaths. In addition to personal factors that may predispose an individual to coronary artery disease or other cardiovascular diseases , occupational exposures can significantly increase

2697-467: Is any material that can be made to react with other substances so that it releases energy as thermal energy or to be used for work . The concept was originally applied solely to those materials capable of releasing chemical energy but has since also been applied to other sources of heat energy, such as nuclear energy (via nuclear fission and nuclear fusion ). The heat energy released by reactions of fuels can be converted into mechanical energy via

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2784-418: Is caused by asbestos exposure, at twice the rate of the non-firefighting working population. Younger firefighters (under age 65) also developed bladder cancer and prostate cancer at higher rates than the general population. The risk of bladder cancer may be present in female firefighters , but research is inconclusive as of 2014. Preliminary research from 2015 on a large cohort of US firefighters showed

2871-424: Is decreasing as heating technology and the availability of good quality fuel improves. In some areas, smokeless coal is often the only solid fuel used. In Ireland, peat briquettes are used as smokeless fuel. They are also used to start a coal fire. Liquid fuels are combustible or energy-generating molecules that can be harnessed to create mechanical energy , usually producing kinetic energy . They must also take

2958-562: Is educated in the proper techniques of fire safety, has an evacuation route and rendezvous point is of top priority in public education for most fire prevention teams in almost all fire department localities. Fire investigators, who are experienced firefighters trained in fire cause determinism, are dispatched to fire scenes, in order to investigate and determine whether the fire was a result of an accident or intentional. Some fire investigators have full law enforcement powers to investigate and arrest suspected arsonists. To allow protection from

3045-460: Is equivalent to 44 ⁄ 12 (this is the ratio of the molecular/atomic weights) or 3.7 tonnes of CO 2 . Carbon dioxide is one of the greenhouse gases that enhances radiative forcing and contributes to global warming , causing the average surface temperature of the Earth to rise in response, which the vast majority of climate scientists agree will cause major adverse effects . Fuels are

3132-399: Is similar to gasoline in that it is a mixture of aliphatic hydrocarbons extracted from petroleum . Kerosene is used in kerosene lamps and as a fuel for cooking, heating, and small engines. Natural gas , composed chiefly of methane , can only exist as a liquid at very low temperatures (regardless of pressure), which limits its direct use as a liquid fuel in most applications. LP gas is

3219-534: Is the only medical training that firefighters have, and medical calls are the sole responsibility of a separate emergency medical services (EMS) agency. Elsewhere, it is common for firefighters to respond to medical calls. The impetus for this is the growing demand in medical emergencies and the significant decline in fires. In such departments, firefighters are often certified as emergency medical technicians in order to deliver basic life support , and more rarely as paramedics to deliver advanced life support . In

3306-409: Is the third most commonly used motor fuel globally. Fuel gas is any one of a number of fuels that are gaseous under ordinary conditions. Many fuel gases are composed of hydrocarbons (such as methane or propane ), hydrogen , carbon monoxide , or mixtures thereof. Such gases are sources of potential heat energy or light energy that can be readily transmitted and distributed through pipes from

3393-605: Is thought to contribute to their excess cancer risk. Dozens of chemicals classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as known or probable carcinogens have been identified on the fireground. Several studies have documented airborne and/or dermal exposures to carcinogenic compounds during firefighting, as well as contamination on turnout gear and other equipment worn by firefighters.  Some of these compounds have been shown to absorb into firefighters' bodies. Fuel A fuel

3480-1010: Is widespread public debate about how carbon neutral these fuels are. Fossil fuels are hydrocarbons , primarily coal and petroleum ( liquid petroleum or natural gas ), formed from the fossilized remains of ancient plants and animals by exposure to high heat and pressure in the absence of oxygen in the Earth's crust over hundreds of millions of years. Commonly, the term fossil fuel also includes hydrocarbon-containing natural resources that are not derived entirely from biological sources, such as tar sands . These latter sources are properly known as mineral fuels . Fossil fuels contain high percentages of carbon and include coal, petroleum, and natural gas. They range from volatile materials with low carbon: hydrogen ratios like methane , to liquid petroleum to nonvolatile materials composed of almost pure carbon, like anthracite coal. Methane can be found in hydrocarbon fields, alone, associated with oil, or in

3567-441: The stoichiometric ratio , the chemically correct air and fuel ratio to ensure complete combustion of fuel, and its specific energy , the energy per unit mass. 1  MJ ≈ 0.28  kWh ≈ 0.37  HPh . (The fuel-air ratio (FAR) is the reciprocal of the air-fuel ratio (AFR).) λ is the air-fuel equivalence ratio, and λ =1 means that it is assumed that the fuel and the oxidising agent (oxygen in air) are present in exactly

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3654-498: The " two in, two out " rule, may extend fire hose lines inside the building, find the fire and cool it with water. Exterior crews may direct water into windows and other openings, or against any nearby fuels exposed to the initial fire. Hose streams directed into the interior through exterior wall apertures may conflict and jeopardize interior fire attack crews. Buildings that are made of flammable materials such as wood are different from building materials such as concrete. Generally,

3741-468: The 18th century. Charcoal briquettes are now commonly used as a fuel for barbecue cooking. Crude oil was distilled by Persian chemists , with clear descriptions given in Arabic handbooks such as those of Muhammad ibn Zakarīya Rāzi . He described the process of distilling crude oil/petroleum into kerosene , as well as other hydrocarbon compounds, in his Kitab al-Asrar ( Book of Secrets ). Kerosene

3828-651: The FDNY, as well as individual firefighters across the New York/ New England area, has resulted in Leary's most recent television show, Rescue Me , a drama-comedy on FX about firefighters. In the pilot episode of the show, he is seen wearing a Leary Firefighter Foundation 9-11 memorial T-shirt. A separate fund run by Leary's foundation, the Fund for New York's Bravest , has distributed over $ 2 million (USD) to

3915-593: The Leary Foundation committed money to help purchase rescue boats for the NOFD. Of the 33 firehouses in New Orleans before the hurricane, at least 20 were so damaged by the disaster that they were unusable—yet firefighters stayed on the job—even when they had to sleep in their rigs, because their own homes were also damaged. The Leary Foundation is committing more money and resources to further address some of

4002-601: The State level to prevent the requirement for Fire Sprinklers in one or two family homes. Other methods of fire prevention are by directing efforts to reduce known hazardous conditions or by preventing dangerous acts before tragedy strikes. This is normally accomplished in many innovative ways such as conducting presentations, distributing safety brochures, providing news articles, writing public safety announcements (PSA) or establishing meaningful displays in well-visited areas. Ensuring that each household has working smoke alarms ,

4089-572: The U.S. fire service is a topic of growing concern. Recent studies suggest that due to their exposure on the fireground, firefighters may be at an increased risk for certain types of cancer and other chronic diseases. Additionally, large international studies generally support the finding from U.S. studies that firefighters have elevated rates of cancer, with some variation by cancer site. A 2015 retrospective longitudinal study showed that firefighters are at higher risk for certain types of cancer . Firefighters had mesothelioma , which

4176-683: The United Kingdom, refer to themselves as a fire and rescue service for this reason. Large fire departments, such as the New York City Fire Department and London Fire Brigade , have specialist teams for advanced technical rescue. As structure fires have been in decline for many years in developed countries such as the United States, rescues other than fires make up an increasing proportion of their firefighters' work. Firefighters frequently provide some degree of emergency medical care . In some jurisdictions first aid

4263-533: The United Kingdom, where fire services and EMS are run separately, fire service co-responding has been introduced more recently. Another point of variation is whether the firefighters respond in a fire engine or a response car . Fire departments are usually the lead agency that responds to hazardous materials incidents. Specialized firefighters, known as hazardous materials technicians, are trained in chemical identification, leak and spill control, and decontamination. Fire departments frequently provide advice to

4350-621: The Worcester, Boston , and New York City areas for equipment, training materials, and new vehicles and facilities, since its creation in 2000. As of 2006, the LFF has donated $ 425,000 to the Boston Fire Department , including a fireboat . As the foundation's president, Leary has been active in all of the fundraising, and usually presents large checks and donated equipment personally. The close relationship he has developed with

4437-561: The absorption of a proton or neutron . In most stars the fuel is provided by hydrogen, which can combine to form helium through the proton-proton chain reaction or by the CNO cycle . When the hydrogen fuel is exhausted, nuclear fusion can continue with progressively heavier elements, although the net energy released is lower because of the smaller difference in nuclear binding energy. Once iron-56 or nickel-56 nuclei are produced, no further energy can be obtained by nuclear fusion as these have

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4524-1212: The air or on their skin. These metals may include beryllium , cadmium , chromium , cobalt , lead , manganese , nickel , and many more. Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), some of which are carcinogenic, come from the incomplete combustion of organic materials and are often found as a result of structural and wildland fires. Safety hazards of fire cleanup include the risk of reignition of smoldering debris, electrocution from downed or exposed electrical lines or in instances where water has come into contact with electrical equipment. Structures that have been burned may be unstable and at risk of sudden collapse. Standard personal protective equipment for fire cleanup include hard hats , goggles or safety glasses, heavy work gloves , earplugs or other hearing protection , steel-toe boots , and fall protection devices. Hazard controls for electrical injury include assuming all power lines are energized until confirmation they are de-energized, and grounding power lines to guard against electrical feedback, and using appropriate personal protective equipment. Proper respiratory protection can protect against hazardous substances. Proper ventilation of an area

4611-532: The allowable amount of work in a given environment based on temperature, humidity and solar loading. Firefighters are also at risk for developing rhabdomyolysis . Rhabdomyolysis is the breakdown of muscle tissue and has many causes including heat exposure, high core body temperature, and prolonged, intense exertion. Routine firefighter tasks, such as carrying extra weight of equipment and working in hot environments, can increase firefighters' risk for rhabdomyolysis. Another leading cause of death during firefighting

4698-515: The area around modern Baku , Azerbaijan . These fields were described by the Arab geographer Abu al-Hasan 'Alī al-Mas'ūdī in the 10th century, and by Marco Polo in the 13th century, who described the output of those wells as hundreds of shiploads. With the development of the steam engine in the United Kingdom in 1769, coal came into more common use, the combustion of which releases chemical energy that can be used to turn water into steam. Coal

4785-586: The combustion of paper, cotton, plastics, and other substances containing carbon and nitrogen . The substances inside of materials change during combustion, and their by-products can interfere with the transport of oxygen in the body. Hypoxia can then lead to heart injury. In addition, chronic exposure to particulate matter in smoke is associated with atherosclerosis . Noise exposures may contribute to hypertension and possibly ischemic heart disease. Other factors associated with firefighting, such as stress , heat stress , and heavy physical exertion, also increase

4872-600: The correct proportions so that they are both fully consumed in the reaction. Nuclear fuel is any material that is consumed to derive nuclear energy . In theory, a wide variety of substances could be a nuclear fuel, as they can be made to release nuclear energy under the right conditions. However, the materials commonly referred to as nuclear fuels are those that will produce energy without being placed under extreme duress. Nuclear fuel can be "burned" by nuclear fission (splitting nuclei apart) or fusion (combining nuclei together) to derive nuclear energy. "Nuclear fuel" can refer to

4959-593: The earliest fuel employed by humans is wood. Evidence shows controlled fire was used up to 1.5 million years ago at Swartkrans , South Africa. It is unknown which hominid species first used fire, as both Australopithecus and an early species of Homo were present at the sites. As a fuel, wood has remained in use up until the present day, although it has been superseded for many purposes by other sources. Wood has an energy density of 10–20 MJ / kg . Recently biofuels have been developed for use in automotive transport (for example bioethanol and biodiesel ), but there

5046-550: The families of the 343 firemen killed in the September 11, 2001 attacks , as well as provided funding for necessities such as a new mobile command center, first responder training, and a high-rise simulator for the New York City Fire Department 's training campus. After Leary learned that the New Orleans Fire Department members rescued 18,000 people from Katrina waters using NOFD members' personal boats,

5133-446: The fire brigade or fire department , is one of the three main emergency services . From urban areas to aboard ships , firefighters have become ubiquitous around the world. The skills required for safe operations are regularly practiced during training evaluations throughout a firefighter's career. Initial firefighting skills are normally taught through local, regional or state-approved fire academies or training courses. Depending on

5220-647: The form of methane clathrates . Fossil fuels formed from the fossilized remains of dead plants by exposure to heat and pressure in the Earth's crust over millions of years. This biogenic theory was first introduced by German scholar Georg Agricola in 1556 and later by Mikhail Lomonosov in the 18th century. It was estimated by the Energy Information Administration that in 2007 primary sources of energy consisted of petroleum 36.0%, coal 27.4%, natural gas 23.0%, amounting to an 86.4% share for fossil fuels in primary energy consumption in

5307-420: The fuel itself, or to physical objects (for example bundles composed of fuel rods ) composed of the fuel material, mixed with structural, neutron moderating , or neutron-reflecting materials. Nuclear fuel has the highest energy density of all practical fuel sources. The most common type of nuclear fuel used by humans is heavy fissile elements that can be made to undergo nuclear fission chain reactions in

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5394-431: The generation of renewable energy is therefore under way to help meet increased energy needs. The burning of fossil fuels produces around 21.3 billion tonnes (21.3 gigatonnes ) of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) per year, but it is estimated that natural processes can only absorb about half of that amount, so there is a net increase of 10.65 billion tonnes of atmospheric carbon dioxide per year (one tonne of atmospheric carbon

5481-459: The highest nuclear binding energies. Any nucleii heavier than Fe and Ni would thus absorb energy instead of giving it off when fused. Therefore, fusion stops and the star dies. In attempts by humans, fusion is only carried out with hydrogen ( H (deuterium) or H (tritium)) to form helium-4 as this reaction gives out the most net energy. Electric confinement ( ITER ), inertial confinement (heating by laser) and heating by strong electric currents are

5568-410: The inherent risks of fighting fires, firefighters wear and carry protective and self-rescue equipment at all times. A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) delivers air to the firefighter through a full face mask and is worn to protect against smoke inhalation , toxic fumes, and super heated gases. A special device called a Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) is commonly worn independently or as

5655-468: The main source of fuel for stars . Fusion fuels are light elements such as hydrogen whose nucleii will combine easily. Energy is required to start fusion by raising the temperature so high that nuclei can collide together with enough energy that they stick together before repelling due to electric charge. This process is called fusion and it can give out energy. In stars that undergo nuclear fusion, fuel consists of atomic nuclei that can release energy by

5742-811: The mass casualty potential of an aviation emergency, the speed with which emergency response equipment and personnel arrive at the scene of the emergency is of paramount importance. When dealing with an emergency, the airport firefighters are tasked with rapidly securing the aircraft, its crew and its passengers from all hazards, particularly fire. Airport firefighters have advanced training in the application of firefighting foams, dry chemical and clean agents used to extinguish burning aviation fuel. Firefighters rescue persons from confinement or dangerous situations such as burning buildings and crashed vehicles. Complex, infrequent situations requiring specialized training and equipment include rescues from collapsed buildings and confined spaces. Many fire departments, including most in

5829-484: The myriad needs of the NOFD and the people they serve. Firefighter A firefighter (or fire fighter ) is a first responder trained in firefighting , primarily to control and extinguish fires that threaten life and property, as well as to rescue persons from confinement or dangerous situations. Male firefighters are sometimes referred to as firemen (and, less commonly, female firefighters as firewomen ). The fire service , also known in some countries as

5916-474: The patient. Workplace violence consists of the mental and physical abuse sustained during on-duty activities. First Responders are the most likely to experience this type of violence and EMS even has a percentage range of 53-90% of calls that had an instance of Workplace violence. This type of violence is a major reason for burnout and depression in First Responders, while EMS deal more with people on

6003-452: The point of origin directly to the place of consumption. Fuel gas is contrasted with liquid fuels and from solid fuels, though some fuel gases are liquefied for storage or transport. While their gaseous nature can be advantageous, avoiding the difficulty of transporting solid fuel and the dangers of spillage inherent in liquid fuels, it can also be dangerous. It is possible for a fuel gas to be undetected and collect in certain areas, leading to

6090-509: The popular methods. Most transportation fuels are liquids, because vehicles usually require high energy density . This occurs naturally in liquids and solids. High energy density can also be provided by an internal combustion engine . These engines require clean-burning fuels. The fuels that are easiest to burn cleanly are typically liquids and gases. Thus, liquids meet the requirements of being both energy-dense and clean-burning. In addition, liquids (and gases) can be pumped, which means handling

6177-502: The presence of three elements: fuel , oxygen and heat. This is often referred to as the fire triangle . Sometimes it is known as the fire tetrahedron if a fourth element is added: a chemical chain reaction which can help sustain certain types of fire. The aim of firefighting is to deprive the fire of at least one of those elements. Most commonly this is done by dousing the fire with water, though some fires require other methods such as foam or dry agents. Firefighters are equipped with

6264-779: The process of combustion . Chemical fuels are divided in two ways. First, by their physical properties, as a solid, liquid or gas. Secondly, on the basis of their occurrence: primary (natural fuel) and secondary (artificial fuel) . Thus, a general classification of chemical fuels is: Solid fuel refers to various types of solid material that are used as fuel to produce energy and provide heating , usually released through combustion. Solid fuels include wood , charcoal , peat , coal , hexamine fuel tablets , and pellets made from wood (see wood pellets ), corn , wheat , rye and other grains . Solid-fuel rocket technology also uses solid fuel (see solid propellants ). Solid fuels have been used by humanity for many years to create fire . Coal

6351-435: The public on how to prevent fires in the home and work-place environments. Fire inspectors or fire marshals will directly inspect businesses to ensure they are up to the current building fire codes , which are enforced so that a building can sufficiently resist fire spread, potential hazards are located, and to ensure that occupants can be safely evacuated, commensurate with the risks involved. Fire suppression systems have

6438-813: The public, firefighters have constant, up-close exposure that can put them at increased risk. Once extinguished, fire debris cleanup poses several safety and health risks for workers. Many hazardous substances are commonly found in fire debris. Silica can be found in concrete, roofing tiles, or it may be a naturally occurring element. Occupational exposures to silica dust can cause silicosis , lung cancer, pulmonary tuberculosis, airway diseases, and some additional non-respiratory diseases. Inhalation of asbestos can result in various diseases including asbestosis , lung cancer, and mesothelioma . Sources of metals exposure include burnt or melted electronics, cars, refrigerators, stoves, etc. Fire debris cleanup workers may be exposed to these metals or their combustion products in

6525-536: The requirements of a department, additional skills and certifications may also be acquired at this time. Firefighters work closely with other emergency response agencies such as the police and emergency medical service . A firefighter's role may overlap with both. Fire investigators or fire marshals investigate the cause of a fire. If the fire was caused by arson or negligence , their work will overlap with law enforcement. Firefighters may also provide some degree of emergency medical service . A fire burns due to

6612-419: The risk management plan indicate an offensive strategy, the incident commander will define the tactical objectives for entering the structure. Offensive incident action plans (tactics) are based on the standard offensive tactical priorities and their corresponding completion benchmarks. Firefighting priorities and tactics: The incident commander should consider these priorities and firefighting tactics at

6699-575: The risk of a gas explosion . For this reason, odorizers are added to most fuel gases so that they may be detected by a distinct smell. The most common type of fuel gas in current use is natural gas . Biofuel can be broadly defined as solid, liquid, or gas fuel consisting of, or derived from biomass . Biomass can also be used directly for heating or power—known as biomass fuel . Biofuel can be produced from any carbon source that can be replenished rapidly e.g. plants. Many different plants and plant-derived materials are used for biofuel manufacture. Perhaps

6786-467: The risk of cardiovascular events. During fire suppression activities a firefighter can reach peak or near peak heart rates which can act as a trigger for a cardiac event. For example, tachycardia can cause plaque buildup to break loose and lodge itself is a small part of the heart causing myocardial infarction , also known as a heart attack. This along with unhealthy habits and lack of exercise can be very hazardous to firefighter health. Cancer risk in

6873-417: The roof or floors of a structure (called vertical ventilation), or open windows and walls (called horizontal ventilation) to remove smoke and heated gases from the interior of the structure. Such ventilation methods are also used to improve interior visibility to locate victims more quickly. Ventilation helps to preserve the life of trapped or unconscious individuals as it releases the poisonous gases from inside

6960-499: The shape of their container; the fumes of liquid fuels are flammable, not the fluids. Most liquid fuels in widespread use are derived from the fossilized remains of dead plants and animals by exposure to heat and pressure inside the Earth's crust. However, there are several types, such as hydrogen fuel (for automotive uses), ethanol , jet fuel and bio-diesel , which are all categorized as liquid fuels. Emulsified fuels of oil in water, such as orimulsion , have been developed as

7047-502: The structure. Specific procedures(NFPA 704) and equipment are needed at a property where hazardous materials are being used or stored. Additionally, fighting fires in some structures may require additional training and firefighting tactics that are specific to that structure. For example, row house fires are a type of structure fire that require specific tactics to decrease risks. Structure fires may be attacked with either "interior" or "exterior" resources, or both. Interior crews, using

7134-467: The structure. Vertical ventilation is vital to firefighter safety in the event of a flashover or backdraft scenario. Releasing the flammable gases through the roof eliminates the possibility of a backdraft, and the removal of heat can reduce the possibility of a flashover. Flashovers, due to their intense heat (900–1,200 °F (480–650 °C)) and explosive temperaments, are commonly fatal to firefighter personnel. Precautionary methods, such as smashing

7221-550: The world. Non-fossil sources in 2006 included hydroelectric 6.3%, nuclear 8.5%, and others ( geothermal , solar , tidal , wind , wood , waste ) amounting to 0.9%. World energy consumption was growing about 2.3% per year. Fossil fuels are non-renewable resources because they take millions of years to form, and reserves are being depleted much faster than new ones are being made. So we must conserve these fuels and use them judiciously. The production and use of fossil fuels raise environmental concerns. A global movement toward

7308-438: Was also produced during the same period from oil shale and bitumen by heating the rock to extract the oil, which was then distilled. Rāzi also gave the first description of a kerosene lamp using crude mineral oil, referring to it as the "naffatah". The streets of Baghdad were paved with tar , derived from petroleum that became accessible from natural fields in the region. In the 9th century, oil fields were exploited in

7395-605: Was later used to drive ships and locomotives . By the 19th century, gas extracted from coal was being used for street lighting in London. In the 20th and 21st centuries, the primary use of coal is to generate electricity , providing 40% of the world's electrical power supply in 2005. Fossil fuels were rapidly adopted during the Industrial Revolution , because they were more concentrated and flexible than traditional energy sources, such as water power. They have become

7482-431: Was the founder and greatest contributor to this element of firefighter safety. In the United States, 25% of fatalities of firefighters are caused by traffic collisions while responding to or returning from an incident. Other firefighters have been injured or killed by vehicles at the scene of a fire or emergency (Paulison 2005). A common measure fire departments have taken to prevent this is to require firefighters to wear

7569-409: Was the fuel source which enabled the Industrial Revolution , from firing furnaces , to running steam engines . Wood was also extensively used to run steam locomotives . Both peat and coal are still used in electricity generation today. The use of some solid fuels (e.g. coal) is restricted or prohibited in some urban areas, due to unsafe levels of toxic emissions. The use of other solid fuels as wood

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