It’s widely-known that smoke from a fire can be deadly. It makes it hard to see exits and cuts off your oxygen supply, making having fire protection equipment crucial for safety. It only takes a short while for it to harm people, so it’s important to take steps to protect yourself. Here is a quick overview of why smoke is so dangerous. 

Why Smoke Is More Harmful Than Fire

1. Toxic Fumes

As fire and smoke spread, burning objects release toxic gases into the air, harming your respiratory system. When you breathe in smoke during a fire, you often let hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and carbon monoxide (CO) into your body. The former is highly poisonous and can cause your cell functions to shut down immediately. The latter causes suffocation, as it prevents oxygen from being distributed throughout your body. Oxygen deprivation for even a short time can cause lifelong health issues.  

2. Explosions

Explosions occur when a combustible mixture (often containing smoke and air) encounters a source of ignition. They typically happen in spaces where the fire hasn’t yet reached. Also, they often occur suddenly and violently, harming or even killing people.

3. Devastating Long-Term Effects

People who are exposed to significant amounts of smoke more than a few times can get heart attacks due to cyanide poisoning. Also, exposure to smoke can cause severe damage to the nervous system, sleep apnea, and even cancer. Other less harmful effects include coughing and vocal cord damage. Having fire protection equipment will reduce the likelihood of these terrible conditions.

When the unthinkable happens, you need fire protection equipment to protect those around you. Accel Fire Systems in Anchorage, AK, offers life-saving products like sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers, as well as backflow services. Call them today at (907) 349-1490 to discuss your fire prevention needs, or visit them online to learn more about their fire protection equipment.