The best way to learn how to use a fire extinguisher is to practice (simulate) before you need to use one. When in doubt, remember the acronym PASS.

Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.

Aim at the base of the fire, not the flames. This is important: In order to put out the fire, you must extinguish the fuel. By aiming towards the base, you “smother” the fire by robbing the fire of its fuel.

Squeeze the lever slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent in the extinguisher. If the handle is released, the discharge will stop.

Sweep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, several feet away, and then move towards the fire once it starts to diminish. Remember: Aim at the base of the fire, not at the flames!!!!

A typical fire extinguisher contains 10 seconds of extinguishing power. This could be less if it has already been partially discharged. Always read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher beforehand and become familiarized with its parts.

WHERE TO KEEP YOUR FIRE EXTINGUISHER

Location, location, location! Having a fire extinguisher is one thing, having it handy in case of an emergency is another. It is recommended you have at least one fire extinguisher on each floor of your home. Keep them in plain sight and no more than five feet above the floor. Do not put them in closets because that will cost you valuable time when you are reaching for it. And even though a fire extinguisher may not match your décor, do not put it behind curtains or drapes.

The most important places to have a fire extinguisher are in areas where there is most likely to be a fire: the kitchen and the garage.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER MAINTENANCE

Extinguisher maintenance is important for everyone’s safety.
You must ensure that:

• The extinguisher is not blocked by furniture, equipment, coats or other objects that could interfere with access in an emergency.
• The pressure is at the recommended level—not too high and not too low. The needle should be in the green zone.
• The pin and tamper seal (if it has one) are intact.
• There are no dents, leaks, rust, chemical deposits and/or other signs of abuse/wear. Wipe off any corrosive chemicals, oil, gunk etc. that may have deposited on the extinguisher.
• If the extinguisher is damaged or needs recharging, replace it immediately!
• IMPORTANT: Recharge or replace all extinguishers immediately after any use, regardless of how much they were used. (Some household extinguishers are not rechargeable.)

TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS:

Fire extinguishers are divided into four categories, based on the type of fires they are designed to extinguish. Each fire extinguisher also has a numerical rating that serves as a guide for the amount of fire the extinguisher can handle. The higher the number, the more fire-fighting power. The following is a quick guide to help choose the right type of extinguisher.

Class A extinguishers are for ordinary combustible materials such as paper, wood, cardboard, and most plastics.

Class B fires involve flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline, kerosene, grease, and oil. The numerical rating for class B extinguishers indicates the approximate number of square feet of fire it can extinguish.

Class C fires involve electrical equipment, such as appliances, wiring, circuit breakers and outlets. The C classification means the extinguishing agent is non-conductive. Never use water to extinguish class C fires—the risk of electrical shock is far too great. Class C extinguishers do not have a numerical rating.

Class D fire extinguishers are commonly found in a chemical laboratory. They are for fires that involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, potassium and sodium. These types of extinguishers also have no numerical rating, nor are they given a multi-purpose rating. They are designed for class D fires only.

Class W is used at or around pre-plumbed fire suppression systems such as restaurant hood (Ansul) systems.

Confused? The best and most economical fire extinguisher is the combination ABC fire extinguisher, which is rated for all-purpose use and perfectly suited for around the home, car, boat, or general business office.

When in doubt, contact your local fire marshal’s office.

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