How to Escape a Flash Fire

Flash fires occur when flammable material and air combust. Flash fires are sudden and intense, characterized by high temperatures and quick-moving flames. They typically only last approximately 3 seconds, but can cause significant damage, especially to enclosed areas. Some flammable materials that often combust to create flash fires are fuels and aerosols. Because flash fires occur suddenly and do not last very long, there is little to do in the way of escaping them, but you can implement measures to help ensure your own safety.

Things You'll Need

• Protective clothing

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Wear protective clothing made of fire-retardant materials when you are in environments in which flash fires may occur. Even regular clothing provides some protection from fires. Fire retardant clothing won't prevent you from catching fire, but flames that come in contact with the clothing will dissipate quickly. For best results, purchase clothing designed specifically to protect against fires, such as flame-resistant jackets, shirts, coveralls and pants.

• 2

  Exit the area as quickly as possible. Flash fires often occur in enclosed spaces. If you can, leave the space as quickly as you can. Get as far away from the flames as possible. Because flash fires occur quickly and last only briefly, your reaction time can be crucial to escaping without injury.

• 3

  Avoid the path of the flames. If you are caught in the vicinity of a flash fire and cannot exit the area, stay out of the way of the quick-moving flame front.

• 4

  Follow general fire safety rules. If you are on fire, then stop, drop and roll to extinguish the flames. Stay as low to the ground as possible to minimize the risk of asphyxiation.