Difference Between Flammable and Highly Flammable

Flammable vs Highly Flammable
 

We are constantly surrounded by objects that can easily catch fire. Chemicals used for gardening as well as maintaining hygiene within the household are some of the items that may easily catch fire or are combustible. Making sure a safe distance is maintained from them at all times and storing them in tightly closed containers are steps that are essential when it comes to keeping one’s home and family safe. Labeling such items as flammable or highly flammable may also be helpful. However, flammable and highly flammable are two phrases that are often confused for one another and it would definitely be useful if one is properly aware what each phrase stands for in order to avoid danger and inconvenience.

What is flammable?

Flammable can be defined as easily ignited. Any substance whether liquid, solid or gas that can easily catch fire or has the ability to burn can be referred to as flammable. Some examples of flammable materials and substances are gasoline, ethanol, and acetone among many others. However, the best way to ascertain flammable material is to read the labels on the containers or bottles that contain the chemicals or to inquire the vendors prior to purchasing the product.

What is highly flammable?

Highly flammable refers to the state of the substance. This phrase describes to what extent an object or a substance is flammable or how easily it can catch fire or get ignited. Highly denotes ‘very easily’ and ‘mostly’ and thus, the phrase ‘highly flammable’ would mean that the substance or the object concerned can catch fire even in the least conducive of circumstances. So a canister or a can which carries the label: highly flammable means that the substance inside the canister can easily be burnt or is very combustible in comparison to regular flammable items. Examples of highly flammable items are: cotton, books, dry leaves, firecrackers and liquid flammables.

What is the difference between flammable and highly flammable?

Flammable and highly flammable are two terms that are often used interchangeably. Both flammable and highly flammable warn the users to take precaution as these substances or items are dangerous. However in depth knowledge on the exact definitions allows one to use these words or phrases properly.

• While flammable items catch fire easily, highly flammable items are more dangerous and can be much easily ignited than flammable items.
• Flammable items may be able to endure heat more than highly flammable items.
• Certain factors that do not cause a reaction in flammable items may easily cause a reaction in highly flammable items.