When used properly, a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by extinguishing a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives.
Although fire extinguishers are not always sufficient since they are not designed to fight a spreading fire, fire extinguishers can be useful under certain conditions. Fire extinguishers are rated according to the types of fire they are designed to fight:
Type A ordinary combustibles (such as wood, paper, or cloth)
Type B flammable liquids (such as gasoline, oil, paint and lacquer thinner)
Type C energized electrical equipment (such as fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery and appliances.
There are multi-purpose extinguishers which can be used on type B and C fires, or types A, B, and C fires. Follow these tips to ensure safety when operating a fire extinguisher:
The extinguisher must large enough to extinguish the fire.
Most portable extinguishers completely discharge in as few as eight seconds.
The extinguisher must be within easy reach, fully charged and in working order.
You must know how to operate the extinguisher. Read the instructions when you purchase the extinguisher. You will not have any time during the fire to read the directions.
Be sure you are strong enough to lift and operate the extinguisher.
Your back should be to a safe unobstructed exit to which the fire will not spread.
If you can not fight the fire or the extinguisher does not extinguish the fire, leave the area and call the fire department.
The use of the wrong type of extinguisher can intensify the fire.
If you decide to fight the fire, remember the word PASS:
Fire Extingusihers
Fire Extinguisher Safety
When used properly, a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by extinguishing a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives.
Although fire extinguishers are not always sufficient since they are not designed to fight a spreading fire, fire extinguishers can be useful under certain conditions. Fire extinguishers are rated according to the types of fire they are designed to fight:
There are multi-purpose extinguishers which can be used on type B and C fires, or types A, B, and C fires. Follow these tips to ensure safety when operating a fire extinguisher: