Optimal släckning av bilbrand med avseende på miljöpåverkan och hälsa hos räddningspersonal

This thesis evaluates the hazards occurring during extinguishing of a passenger car fire in order to obtain recommendations for the Swedish rescue services on how to extinguish a passenger car fire in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. The thesis evaluates both acute and long term toxicity of combustion products as well as extinguishing agents, regarding both human health and the environment. A literature search was conducted and with help from the literature the toxicity was evaluated. Interviews were held with a number of fire departments, insurance companies and car manufacturers in order to gain information about rescue service methods, insurance questions and technical specifications about various passenger cars. The thesis concludes that virtually all of the combustion products regarded in the report are harmful to both health and the environment, and the same goes for extinguishing agents. As the extinguishing agents may be harmful for the environment and health, and since they lead to a less effective combustion, the safest and most environmentally friendly thing is to let the burning passenger car burn by itself, if possible. To increase the safety of the rescue personnel, they should always wear protective clothing and SCBA during the operation