Chemical hazards increase
The potential disasters that our volunteer firemen face these days are increasing both in range and intensity. From the burning lawnmower to the extremely hazardous chemical spills, they have to be ready to use all sorts of techniques to deal with accidents. It is no longer a case of pouring water on the problem, as this can often exacerbate the problem. Many chemicals in common use today can react violently with water or even air while many can react dangerously when combined with other non-toxic substances in general use. This means that a fire in a building containing certain chemicals has to be dealt with in specific ways depending on the chemical combinations.
The worst example of this kind of hazard in New Zealand was the 1C1 fire in Auckland in December 1984. Many firemen are still receiving medical treatment as a result of that fire. More recently there was a danger-
ous chemical spillage on state highway one north of Wellington where a drum of toxic chemical split and leaked onto the road over several miles. This type of hazard exists in the Waimarino with both the Main Trunk Line and state highways passing through the area. All types of chemicals, and dangerous goods are carried in railway wagons and on trucks. In addition to these mobile hazards there are also many permanent ones in private sheds and garages, in farm buildings and carrot sheds. These types of buildings are often being used to store different chemicals in dangerous situations. When firemen are called to a fire in any building there is always the possibility that they will meet more than just flames.
These situations can't be totally eliminated but they can be avoided by careful storage of hazardous substances. Even a garden shed may be a potential disaster if it stores certain chemicals. This means storing chemicals which could be hazardous in a fire, away from flammable chemicals and substances such as LPG and petrol etc. Also checking stored chemicals and their containers regularly is important so that damaged containers can be disposed of properly. Storing dangerous goods in a structure that is less likely to catch fire is essential. Storing a variety of chemicals and flammable substances in an old wooden shed is multiplying the hazard greatly.
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Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 31, 20 January 1987, Page 9
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383Chemical hazards increase Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 31, 20 January 1987, Page 9
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