Bachelor in Hospitality health and Safety Management

practicum report for Lusaka City Council Fire Station

Jul 10, 2024
Supervisor: Mr. Kalenga - Assist. Deputy Lusaka Division Fire Station

eddiengandu@[Link]
STUDENT ID: UB80860HO90077
Preamble
The importance of safety and emergency preparedness cannot be overstated. Fire
stations, as crucial entities in safeguarding lives and property, play a
significant role in ensuring that communities are protected against fire
hazards and other emergencies. This practicum at the Lusaka City Council - Fire
Station (fire department ) provided a unique opportunity to understand the
intricacies of fire safety, emergency response, first aid, and building
planning and evaluation.

Introduction
This report documents my practicum experience at the Lusaka City Council -
Fire Station. Over the course of this practicum, I was exposed to various
aspects of fire safety and emergency management, gaining hands-on experience
and invaluable insights from professionals in the field. The practicum aimed to
equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to
fire safety and emergency preparedness initiatives.

Objectives
The primary objectives of this practicum were:
To understand the fundamentals of fire safety and prevention [Link] gain
practical experience in emergency response and [Link] learn the basics
of first aid and its application in emergency [Link] understand the
principles of building planning and evaluation in the context of fire safety.

Practicum Activities
1. Fire Safety
During the practicum, I participated in various fire safety drills and
exercises. These included fire prevention techniques, the use of fire
extinguishers, and understanding the importance of fire alarms and sprinkler
systems. I also learned about fire safety regulations and standards that must
be adhered to in different types of buildings. Additionally, I had the
opportunity to observe inspections of commercial and residential buildings to
ensure compliance with fire safety codes. This hands-on experience emphasized
the critical role of regular inspections and maintenance in preventing fire
hazards.
1. Fire Safety Drills and Exercises During the practicum, I participated in
various fire safety drills and exercises designed to simulate real-life fire
emergencies. These drills included evacuation procedures, search and rescue
operations, and the proper use of firefighting equipment. These exercises
emphasized the importance of quick response and teamwork in effectively
managing fire incidents.
2. Fire Prevention TechniquesI learned various fire prevention techniques
aimed at reducing the risk of fire occurrences. These techniques included safe
handling and storage of flammable materials, proper disposal of waste, and
regular maintenance of electrical systems to prevent short circuits and
electrical fires.
3. The Use of Fire Extinguishers Training on the use of fire extinguishers was
a crucial part of the practicum. I was taught the different types of fire
extinguishers and their appropriate use for different classes of fires.
Hands-on practice in using fire extinguishers provided me with the confidence
to effectively handle small fires.
Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Use:The training on fire extinguishers
covered the different types of fire extinguishers and their appropriate use for
different classes of fires. The main types of fire extinguishers include:

* Water Extinguishers (Class A)

 Used for fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and
textiles. Water extinguishers work by cooling the burning material and removing
the heat element of the fire triangle.
* Foam Extinguishers (Class A and B)
 Used for fires involving flammable liquids and electrical equipment. CO2
extinguishers work by displacing oxygen and reducing the heat with a cold
discharge, effectively suffocating the fire.
* Dry Powder Extinguishers (Class A, B, C, and Electrical)
* Versatile extinguishers suitable for fires involving flammable gases (Class
C), flammable liquids (Class B), and electrical fires, as well as ordinary
combustibles (Class A). Dry powder extinguishers work by interrupting the
chemical reaction of the fire.
* Suitable for fires involving flammable liquids (Class B) as well as solid
combustibles (Class A). Foam extinguishers work by forming a barrier between
the fuel and the oxygen, thereby smothering the fire.
* Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers (Class B and Electrical)
* Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Class F)
* Specifically designed for fires involving cooking oils and fats (Class F).
Wet chemical extinguishers work by forming a soapy layer on the surface of the
burning oil, cutting off the oxygen supply and cooling the oil to prevent
re-ignition

4. Understanding the Importance of Fire Alarms and Sprinkler SystemsThe

practicum emphasized the critical role of fire alarms and sprinkler systems in
early detection and suppression of fires. I learned about the various types of
fire alarm systems, their installation, and maintenance. Additionally, I
observed the functionality of sprinkler systems in controlling the spread of
fires.
5. Fire Safety Regulations and StandardsA significant part of the practicum
involved understanding fire safety regulations and standards that must be
adhered to in different types of buildings. I studied local fire safety codes
and learned how they are applied in the design, construction, and maintenance
of buildings to ensure safety.

6. Observation of InspectionsI had the opportunity to observe inspections of

commercial and residential buildings to ensure compliance with fire safety
[Link] inspections involved checking for proper installation and
maintenance of fire safety equipment, ensuring clear and accessible exit
routes, and verifying that building materials met fire safety standards.

7. Importance of Regular Inspections and MaintenanceThe practicum

highlighted
the importance of regular inspections and maintenance in preventing fire
hazards. I learned how routine checks and maintenance of fire safety systems,
such as alarms, sprinklers, and extinguishers, play a crucial role in early
detection and effective response to fire incidents.

2. Emergency Response:
Emergency response training involved learning the protocols for responding to
different types of emergencies, including fires, chemical spills, and natural
disasters. I observed and assisted in mock emergency scenarios, which provided
a realistic understanding of the urgency and coordination required in actual
emergency situations. The training also covered the use of various firefighting
equipment, such as hoses, ladders, and breathing apparatus. Moreover, I was
trained in incident command systems and the importance of clear
communication and teamwork during emergency responses.
The details of protocols for responding to different types of emergencies:
1. Fire I participated in mock fire emergency scenarios that provided a
realistic understanding of the urgency and coordination required in actual fire
incidents. Training covered the use of various fire fighting equipment, such as
hoses, ladders, and breathing apparatus. I also learned about the importance of
incident command systems and clear communication during fire emergencies to
ensure efficient and effective response.
2. Chemical SpillHandling chemical spills requires specialized knowledge and
equipment. I was trained in the protocols for managing chemical spills,
including containment, evacuation, and decontamination procedures. The
training
emphasized the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper
disposal of hazardous materials to prevent environmental contamination and
ensure the safety of responders and the public.
3. Natural DisastersResponding to natural disasters such as floods,
earthquakes, and storms involves a multidisciplinary approach. I learned about
disaster preparedness, risk assessment, and emergency response strategies. The
training included participation in disaster drills that simulated various
scenarios, teaching me the importance of rapid assessment, resource allocation,
and collaboration with other emergency services to effectively manage the
impact of natural disasters.

[Link] Aid
First aid training was a crucial component of the practicum. I was trained in
basic first aid procedures such as CPR, wound care, and treatment of burns.
This training emphasized the importance of quick and effective first aid in
reducing the severity of injuries and saving lives. I also learned how to
assess and manage different types of injuries and medical conditions that may
occur during emergencies. The practical sessions included role-playing
scenarios to practice administering first aid under pressure, which
significantly enhanced my confidence and competence in handling real-life
[Link] details of the following:
1. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)I learned how to perform CPR, a
life-saving technique used in emergencies when someone's breathing or
heartbeat has stopped. The training covered the steps of chest compressions and
rescue breaths, as well as the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
Practicing CPR on mannequins helped me develop the skills needed to perform
it effectively.
2. Wound CareProper wound care is essential in preventing infections and
promoting healing. I was trained in cleaning and dressing wounds, managing
bleeding, and recognizing the signs of infection. The training included
hands-on practice in bandaging techniques and the use of sterile dressings.
[Link] of BurnsThe practicum included training on the assessment and
treatment of burns. I learned how to differentiate between first-degree,
second-degree, and third-degree burns and provide appropriate first aid for
each type. The training emphasized the importance of cooling the burn with
running water, covering the burn with a sterile dressing, and seeking
professional medical help for severe burns. Practical exercises included
treating simulated burns to reinforce the proper techniques and procedures.

4. Challenges Faced
One of the significant challenges I encountered during the practicum was
understanding the complex fire safety codes and regulations. The technical
language and detailed requirements necessitated extensive study and
consultation with experienced fire safety officers. Another challenge was the
physical and emotional demands of participating in emergency response drills.
These scenarios required quick thinking, physical stamina, and the ability to
remain calm under pressure. However, these challenges provided valuable
learning experiences and helped me develop resilience and adaptability.

5. Conclusion
The practicum at the Lusaka City Council Fire Station was an enriching
experience that provided comprehensive training in fire safety, emergency
response, first aid, and building planning and evaluation. The knowledge and
skills gained during this practicum will be invaluable in my future career
endeavors. I am grateful for the guidance and support provided by the
professionals at the fire station, and I am confident that this experience has
prepared me to contribute effectively to safety and emergency preparedness
initiatives. The challenges faced and overcome during this practicum have also
strengthened my determination to pursue a career in this vital field.