“A Review of the Impact of Fire Extinguishers in Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Building Fires” reveals that using portable extinguishers early in a fire emergency can reduce fire-related carbon emissions
CLEVELAND — The Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association announces the release of a commissioned study titled, “A Review of the Impact of Fire Extinguishers in Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Building Fires.” Produced by respected fire protection engineering firm Jensen Hughes, the study reveals how portable fire extinguishers can dramatically reduce fire-related carbon emissions.
The study shows that using portable fire extinguishers in the early stages of fire development provides the highest reduction of carbon emission by suppressing the fire as early as possible. “If we’re able to put that fire out, when it’s really small, perhaps by using a portable fire extinguisher, then that’s going to minimize the amount of carbon that’s released,” said Morgan Hurley, Senior Director at Jensen Hughes.
The study reveals structure fires contribute one-half of one percent to one percent of the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which is equivalent to more than the output of five-to-ten million cars annually. By effectively using portable fire extinguishers in buildings with automatic sprinkler systems, a 99 percent reduction of fire-related carbon emissions is achieved.
Data shows if portable fire extinguishers are available, they’re likely to be used effectively. “The bottom line is that we should be encouraging people to install and use portable fire extinguishers in all their buildings,” said Jim Tidwell, a code consultant for the Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association. “That is, without a doubt, the very best way to save on the carbon footprint when it comes to building fires.”
“A Review of the Impact of Fire Extinguishers in Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Building Fires” can be downloaded from the Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association’s website. Visit femalifesafety.org/CarbonFootprint for more information and explore the site to learn about the association’s dedication to saving lives and protecting property through education and awareness, advancement of the fire equipment marketplace, and improvements in regulatory requirements.
About the Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association
The Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association is a more than 80-year-old non-profit trade association dedicated to saving lives and protecting property by providing education on a layered fire protection design. For additional information, including videos, interactive questionnaires, and training websites about fire safety and protection, visit femalifesafety.org or call 216-241-7333. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/FireEquipmentManufacturersAssociation. For a complete listing of member companies, visit the Member Profiles page of the association’s website at femalifesafety.org/members.