How To Use a Fire Extinguisher

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Types of Fire Extinguishers

There are many hazards within the home that can cause a fire to break out, but with proper care and basic safety, this is a rare problem. Accidents still do happen though, and it never hurts to be prepared if the situation calls for it. Owning a small fire extinguisher and having it in a handy spot, such as the kitchen pantry, can be a life saver.

Of course, making the decision to take it out and use it can be tricky, as you must know what type of fire it is, what type of fire extinguisher can be used safely, and whether or not it is a safe enough situation to handle it yourself without instead evacuating and calling the fire department. Consult OSHA’s website to determine which type of extinguisher would be the best for your home. There are many types, including multi-purpose, as well as Class K which is specifically for putting out a kitchen fire.

There are situations when even if you are able to get to the fire extinguisher, the fire may be growing too quickly, and it would be better to call emergency services before you attempt to control the situation.

Operate Your Fire Extinguisher

The following technique called PASS is useful for operating most extinguishers:

Pull: Pull the pin and break the tamper seal.

Aim: Aim at the base of the fire with the hose or nozzle.

Squeeze: Squeeze the handle.

Sweep: Use a sweeping motion to spray the chemicals along the base until it goes out, then wait to see if it reignites, and repeat if necessary.

If there are any doubts about your ability to handle a fire, evacuate and call 911. Especially in the case of a kitchen fire, burning oils are incredibly dangerous and having the right type of chemicals in your extinguisher is crucial for your safety. Fire damage restoration services are much more affordable than risking your life!