Kerosene is an organic compound, which is a fractional product obtained as a result of oil refining. The word "kerosene" is derived from the Greek "keros" meaning "wax". This term ("kerosene") was introduced into production by the British during the era of production growth.
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 it is impossible to extinguish burning kerosene with water.
In the 19th century, kerosene was the most sought after commodity for lighting. In the beginning, kerosene lamps were a luxury that only the nobility could afford. Later, kerosene lamps turned into an essential item that was in every home.
Today, kerosene is used for various household needs as a motor fuel, for heating and lighting a room, as a fuel for construction vehicles anddiesel engines. Very often, the cause of a fire is an unattended kerosene lamp or a clear violation of safety regulations during the operation of household appliances that use kerosene as fuel.
Why can't you extinguish burning kerosene with water?
The question "why it is impossible to extinguish burning kerosene with water" is often asked by people who are unfamiliar with the basic physical properties of this flammable substance. While water is the most common firefighting agent, it should never be used to put out flames from burning kerosene.
How can I put out a burning kerosene?
Kerosene is a flammable liquid. It is worth noting that water does not extinguish kerosene! In addition, this substance is lighter than water - and if burning kerosene is poured with water, it will float to its surface without stopping burning. In this case, there is a danger of it spreading in different directions, which can provoke an increase in the fire area.
Why can't you extinguish burning kerosene with water? Because the main goal that needs to be achieved when eliminating a fire is to block the access of oxygen to an open flame. And this cannot be achieved with water.
You can extinguish spilled burning kerosene using the following available tools:
- sand;
- clods of earth;
- dense fabric (you can moisten it with water);
- fire extinguishers (preferred).
In order to effectively put out a fire, you need to knock down the flame by pouring the above substances on top, using a steel pan, plywood sheet, shovel, metal scoop, etc. At the same time, combustible vapors cease to be released when the entire surface of burning kerosene is completely covered with a sufficient layer of sand or earth.
If a fire occurs caused by the ignition of spilled kerosene, you should immediately call the fire brigade, even if you de alt with it on your own. The fire can go unnoticed in the voids under the floors and after a while flare up with greater force.
There are other reasons why it is impossible to extinguish kerosene with water - the flame can spread to surrounding objects, especially if the fire occurs in a garage or apartment. A smoldering object located in a place inaccessible to revision can cause a fire to resume.
If there is a risk of fire in electrical networks located in close proximity to the source of ignition, then the electrical wiring should be de-energized as soon as possible. If the wires caught fire before this moment, then the fire can be knocked down with dry sand, using a shovel or scoop for this.
In order to avoid a fire, you must follow all precautions when using appliances powered by kerosene, exclude work in close proximity to open sources of fire. It is strictly forbidden to use damaged or defective appliances.
