When it comes to fire protection, it is important to know and understand the advantages and disadvantages of the many different types of fire protection agents. Dry chemical fire extinguishers are a very popular fire protection agent used in personal, professional, and commercial settings. Dry chemical fire protection agents have both advantages and disadvantages. These types of extinguishers work by “coating a burning surface, separating the fuel of the fire from its oxygen supply” which then puts out the fire (Ace Fire Equipment). By spraying this chemical agent on the fire, it can quickly and efficiently put out the fire. The advantage of this type of fire suppression is that it is very effective and can be easily used by the common individual. This type of fire protection is also a good choice because it is “appropriate for Class A, B and C fires (ABC dry chemical) as well as Class B and C fires (BC dry chemical)” (National Fire Protection). It also works very fast, and can therefore prevent further damage. The disadvantage to this type of fire protection is that the chemical agents used can be dangerous to humans. If this dry chemical agent is inhaled into the lungs, it can cut off the oxygen supply to the lungs, “resulting in hypoxia,” which can cause cardiac arrest (Taluba, 2010). This is a major disadvantage of dry chemical fire protection agents because it is harmful to those who are trying to prevent harm by putting out the fire. A fire protection agent should be used to prevent harm and danger, but this type of agent may actually cause harm to those who are trying to be protected. Because of the advantages and disadvantages of dry chemical fire protection agents, it is necessary to carefully weigh the benefits and consequences of this product.
References
Ace Fire Equipment. Dry Chemical Fire Protection. Retrieved from http://www.acefireequipment.com/articles/dry-chemical-fire-protection/
Taluba, Joshua. Emergency Fire Management: Strategy and Leadership in Critical Times. (2010, Nov 24). What Health Risks do Fire Extinguishers Pose to Health-Care Facilities? Retrieved from http://www.emergencymgmt.com/health/Health-Risks-Fire-Extinguishers.html
National Fire Protection. (2012). Dry Chemical. Retrieved from https://nationalfireinc.com/suppression-systems/dry-chemical.html.
