Fire is the rapid oxidation of a material in the chemical process of combustion, releasing heat, light, and various reaction products. Fires give off heat, or the process of energy transfer from one body or system due to thermal contact.

The flame is the visible portion of the fire and consists of glowing hot gases. Depending on the substances alight, and any impurities outside, the color of the flame and the fire’s intensity will be different.

Fire fighting services are provided in most developed areas to extinguish or contain uncontrolled fires. Trained firefighters use fire apparatus, water supply resources such as water mains and fire hydrants or they might use A and B class foam depending on what is feeding the fire.

Fire prevention is intended to reduce sources of ignition. Fire prevention also includes education to teach people how to avoid causing fires. Buildings, especially schools and tall buildings, often conduct fire drills to inform and prepare citizens on how to react to a building fire. Purposely starting destructive fires constitutes arson and is a crime in most jurisdictions.

Model building codes require passive fire protection and active fire protection systems to minimize damage resulting from a fire. The most common form of active fire protection is fire sprinklers. To maximize passive fire protection of buildings, building materials and furnishings in most developed countries are tested for fire-resistance, combustibility and flammability. Upholstery, carpeting and plastics used in vehicles andvessels are also tested.

Where fire prevention and fire protection have failed to prevent damage, fire insurance can mitigate the financial impact. In the event of a fire loss covered under the fire insurance policy, the Insured shall give notice to the insurance company within 15 days of the occurrence of such loss. The Insured should submit a claim in writing giving the details of damages and their estimated values. Details of other insurances on the same property should also be declared.

If your property has suffered damages resulting from a fire, an adjuster can greatly assist you with the daunting task of properly documenting the loss, preparing repair estimates, and reporting the claim timely so that it can be processed and settled as quickly as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact your insurance adjusters at Insurance Claim Solutions, Inc. to assist