How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

If a fire breaks out in your home, office or other area, will you know how to use a fire extinguisher in order to fight the fire? While a fire extinguisher is meant to be easy to use, there are certain steps you will need to take to insure your ability to work the extinguisher.

Types of fire extinguisher;

Class A - To be used on combustible materials such as wood, cloth, plastic and paper.

Class B - Used on flammable liquids such as grease, gasoline, oil and oil based paints.

Class C - Used on electrical fires

Class D - Normally used for metal fires - there are sub-classes for different types of metal.

Class K - Used mostly in commercial kitchens for fires involving animal fats.

Class ABC - This is a general purpose extinguisher which can be used on almost any fire. This is also the most common type of extinguisher found in homes and automobiles.

If you need to use a fire extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS. This simple term will help remember the steps of activating and using the extinguisher.

P - Pull the pin. The pin is located in the handle and is currently keeping the handle locked open.

A - Aim at the base of the fire. Remember you are trying to extinguish what is burning, don't waste the extinguisher aiming it at the higher flames or smoke.

S - Squeeze the trigger. - Squeeze the handle fully to activate the fire extinguisher. The chemicals inside are under pressure so expect a very slight kick when it activates

S - Sweep side to side. You are in effect attempting to herd the fire into a smaller space where it can be extinguished more easily. You have a very limited amount of chemicals so do not waste time or hesitate.

Basic rules for fighting a fire.
1) Call for help before you start fighting the fire. It is critical to get professional with the proper equipment on their way as quickly as possible.
2) Make certain you keep you back to an exit. If the fire every threatens to cut off your escape route, exit immediately.
3) Watch your surroundings. If the fire is spreading toward an item such as a gas can or chemical container, do not wait until the last minute to attempt to flee. If you are uncertain if you can prevent the fire from reaching the hazard, leave immediately.
4) Be aware of the smoke. While the fire is dangerous, the smoke is far more likely to overcome you. Keep low and away from the smoke as much as possible.
5) Do not take chances. Remember a hand held fire extinguisher is meant for small fires only, such as a trash can which has caught on fire, not a large fire.
6) Never ever use water on an electrical fire or a grease fire. This will only make the situation worse and greatly endanger your life.