It's an advantage to know a few key things about a fire extinguisher such as when to use it or what type of fire it can put out. Read on and learn the basic know-how of fire extinguishers so you can use it more effectively!
Fire Extinguisher: Putting Out Fire Easily
When you encounter a fire, you will feel more comfortable using a fire extinguisher if you know the basic things about it. One fact everyone should know is they are commonly designed to put out a fire during its incipient stage or when the fire is just starting.
It can be difficult to put out a fire when it's been going on for 5 minutes or more, and this is also the part where you have to evacuate and call the fire department. Therefore, knowing when to use a fire extinguisher or if it's the suitable type to use is a huge leverage for your survival.
Before Using a Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are for controlling small fires or the beginning stages of fires before they have a chance to spread.
So before using one, make sure you know these things below:
- Have a clear escape route
- Be familiar with the operating instructions
- Use a fire extinguisher suited to the fire you're facing
Parts of a Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers pretty much all look the same. Most of them come in red metal containers, so they're easy to locate in a room.
Here are the important parts of a fire extinguisher you need to know:
- Handle/Trigger – The top portion of the handle is the trigger and once pressed, it will emit the agent.
- Safety pin – You have to pull the safety pin before you can use the fire extinguisher. A zip tie is used to avoid accidentally setting it off.
- Discharge nozzle/Hose – The type of the nozzle or hose will depend on the size of the fire extinguisher.
- Pressure gauge – This part will indicate if the tank is full or empty.
- The First Alert Home1 Fire Extinguisher is multi-purpose and is designed to fight common household fires including wood, paper, fabric, flammable...
- The extinguisher is lightweight and easy to use.
- Durable all-metal construction with a commercial-grade metal valve and trigger. UL rated 1-A:10-B:C.
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Common Types of Fire
Different types of fire require a suitable fire extinguisher. Not using the right type of extinguishing agent can put your life at a higher risk.
- A – Class A fire includes common combustibles like paper, wood, and tires.
- B – It involves flammable liquids like gasoline and petroleum oil.
- C – This type of fire include energized electrical equipment like appliances, motors, and transformers.
- K – Class F fire involve cooking oils and greases.
Use it the Right Way
Control and extinguish the fire using the acronym P.A.S.S. which stands for pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep. And stay calm when putting the fire out so you can think clearly during this situation.
- Pull – The fire extinguisher will never work until you pull out the pin. You have to be sure you're not pressing the top portion of the handle while pulling the pin out. After that, discard the pin.
- Aim – Aim the nozzle at the base of the flames, but don't get too close. You can't put out a fire if the base is not yet extinguished.
- Squeeze – After aiming the nozzle at the base of the fire, squeeze the lever firmly to discharge the fire extinguishing agent.
- Sweep – Sweep the hose side to side to cover the base of the fire. Don't just point it in one spot because it can easily spread the fire.
Check out this video from Fire and Safety Centre to know the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses!
Fire extinguishers are indispensable fire-fighting equipment that can help you put out small fires. You just have to remember not to turn your back on the fire when you're trying to extinguish it, and be as close to a safe exit as possible when the fire gets out of control.
Your safety should be your number one priority, and don't hesitate to call the fire department immediately. Familiarize yourself with the location of fire extinguishers in your workplace, and have the least one in your home. Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher properly when the situation deems fit can shift the odds in your favor.
- The First Alert EZ Fire Spray Portable Fire Extinguisher discharges 4 times longer than a traditional fire extinguisher, providing 32 seconds of...
- Light aerosol can is easy to hold, carry, and use; ideal for kitchen, garage, boat, RV, dorm, and more
- Extinguishes paper, fabric, wood, grease, and electrical fires, Light aerosol can is easy to hold, carry and use
Have you tried using a fire extinguisher? Tell us your experience in the comments below!
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on Dec 1, 2017, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
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Cut and remove the stupid zip tie that some come with to secure the removal pin. It will slow you down at a minimum, and may even prevent you from removing the pin to release the handle. Also remember to shake the powder type yearly, to prevent caking. This is especially important for a boat’s extinguisher as the boat’s movement will tend to compact the powder even more. Same with the one in your car.
I never knew that there are different types of extinguishers! My grandma is looking to replace the fire extinguisher in her home but wants some help. I’ll be sure to talk to her about consulting with a professional to make sure she gets the right one. http://www.ameri-safe.com/fire-extinguishers-tacoma-wa/
Thank you for all the information about fire extinguishers, and how to use them. My workplace just got a new fire extinguisher and I have been wondering how to use it. I’m glad you mentioned that there are different types of fire which require a suitable fire extinguisher. I will have to find out what type of fire ours is for.
water exttng. for wood trash ect. co2 for everything else , dry chem works but makes a mess