Be cautious of unusual fires

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Page ID 1012079 Update Date Reiwa 7, March 13

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About Tracking Phenomena

The tracking phenomenon occurs when dust or moisture accumulates between the electrodes, such as in the prongs of a plug, causing small sparks to repeatedly occur and leading to a short circuit between the electrodes. When a short circuit happens, flames can erupt vigorously, potentially igniting nearby items like curtains and causing a fire.
The tracking phenomenon can occur regardless of whether the device is in use, as long as the plug is inserted into the outlet. Please pay attention to the following to prevent tracking phenomena.

  • Occasionally unplug the plugs that are left inserted in outlets and power strips, and wipe them with a dry cloth.
  • After using the equipment, turn off the switch and unplug it from the outlet.
  • If the plug and cord are hot, stop using them immediately and have them checked at an electrical store.
Illustration: Tracking Phenomenon Picture
Tracking Phenomenon

Clothing Fire Safety

The phenomenon where clothing catches fire immediately from the flames of a gas stove, heater, or candles on a Buddhist altar is called clothing ignition.
With the spread of COVID-19, the use of disinfectant alcohol for hand sanitization and other purposes has increased. Since disinfectant alcohol is highly flammable, there is a risk of igniting clothing if the alcohol seeps into it during hand sanitization. Please pay attention to the following to prevent clothing ignition.

  • When handling fire, avoid wearing clothing with wide hems or sleeves as they are easily ignited. Especially when cooking, wear an apron that is treated to be flame-resistant.
  • Do not place seasonings or other items behind the gas stove.
  • After using the altar fire, do not leave it as is; extinguish it immediately.

In case of emergency

If your clothing catches fire, quickly extinguish it by removing it, patting it down, or pouring water on it.

Illustration: Clothing Fire Illustration
Clothing Fire

About Contraction Fires

The phenomenon of sunlight being reflected or refracted by lenses or mirrors and converging at a single point is called the convergence phenomenon, and if there are flammable materials at that location, it can lead to a fire. To prevent convergence fires, please pay attention to the following.

  • Do not place mirrors, vases, or other items that may cause a converging phenomenon in areas where sunlight enters, such as near windows.
  • When going out, close the curtains to block out light.
  • Be careful with bicycles, motorcycles, and water-filled plastic bottles outdoors.
  • In the morning and evening, as well as during winter, the sun is low in the sky, making it easier for sunlight to penetrate deep into the room, so be careful.
Illustration: Converging Fire Illustration
Contraction Fire

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Inquiries about this page

Inagi City Fire Department Prevention Division
〒206-0802 2111 Higashi-Naganuma, Inagi City, Tokyo (Inagi Fire Station)
Phone number: 042-377-7119 Fax number: 042-377-0119
Contact Us for the Inagi City Fire Department Prevention Division