When flames spread rapidly: interview with a fire officer.

The newspaper Brennaktuelt had a discussion with fire officer Rolf S. Nordberg. He started as a fire officer in the early 1980s and rose to become fire chief and head of the department for emergency preparedness at the Oslo Fire and Rescue Service. After 32 years with the Oslo Fire and Rescue Service, he now uses his time to share his experiences and knowledge with others as an instructor and speaker.

Rolf shares his thoughts here on why it's time to rethink fire safety and emergency preparedness.

Why are fires still a challenge?

- Fire has always been an existential threat, and it still is – just in a new form. Think of how medieval cities were shaped by devastating urban fires. Today we see the same pattern in modern contexts: parking garages, ferry connections and electric vehicles catching fire. Our technology has made everyday life safer in many ways, but when it comes to fires, it has also made the challenges more complex. Enclosed concrete structures, electric cars and the widespread use of lithium-ion batteries make fires both more intense and more difficult to put out.

What is the challenge with society's current level of preparedness?

- We talk a lot about prevention - and it's important. But when an electric car suddenly catches fire in a garage, when an electric scooter burns in an apartment complex, or when an engine overheats/catches on a ferry, there's no time for prevention. It happens right then and there. And what we have to respond - hand-held fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems and water - is often insufficient. In some cases, it can even make the situation worse. It's time to realize that our tools are outdated when it comes to modern fire scenarios, and that we also need new equipment and methods.

Is there an alternative or solution?

-Yes, and the most common alternative is fire blankets. This is not a new invention, but the way we use them has changed dramatically. They are able to suffocate fires by eliminating the oxygen supply and reducing the spread of smoke and fire gases - without using toxic chemicals and without damaging surrounding structures. Fire blankets can be used on cars, trucks and other battery-powered vehicles. The technology exists - but its use is still far too limited. The same goes for the knowledge of how "most people" should relate to this. You can also enter into a consultation collaboration with the local fire department on placement and use.

Why aren't fire blankets more common?

-It's about priorities - and politics and economics. After every major fire, there are public inquiries and reports, but they rarely end with concrete action. Investments in fire safety are invisible - until they become crucial. Then it's often too late. Fire blankets cost money, but they also save lives and property. Yet we collectively accept the risk because we believe that major fires are the exception, not the rule.

How could we more effectively integrate fire blankets into our contexts?

- We need to make them the standard. Fire blankets in parking lots, tunnels, hotels, and ferries should be as natural as smoke detectors and sprinkler systems today. It's time to learn from history and act before tragedy strikes. The next time you park in an underground facility or board a ship, ask yourself: Are we prepared, or have we been caught off guard again?

What are the risks associated with fire blankets?

The risks and challenges associated with the use of large fire blankets are primarily that those who will use the blanket may be exposed to smoke, toxic gases and high temperatures. This requires awareness and training regarding the possibilities offered by this blanket and the limitations in terms of personal safety. The fire blanket should be used at an early stage, i.e. when there are signs of fire in the form of smoke development, high surface temperature or abnormal sounds, for example in batteries.

This may seem contradictory considering that we recommend the blanket, but it should be considered an emergency product, with the advantages and disadvantages that it entails.

At Distreo, we always offer the possibility of training and simulation of fires, providing training blankets. We also offer training courses for such equipment and provide technical support to train and equip technical personnel with a high level of knowledge.

Visit distreo.ro to discover the full range of fire protection equipment