Fire Extinguishers
Smart Fire Safety is in Your Hands
Few handheld human inventions are as powerful or ingenious as the fire extinguisher. But to properly, effectively, and safely use a fire extinguisher to stop flames from doing real damage, you need to know exactly what you’re doing—and how best to do it. Here’s some further insights about fire extinguishers—along with helpful tips for their safe, smart usage.Â
Types of Fire Extinguishers
- Water
- CO2
- Multipurpose (ABC or BC)
- Dry Chemical
- Purple K
Classes of FiresÂ
- A: Ordinary combustibles such as furniture, wood, and paper goods
- B: Flammable liquids such as gas, oil, and paint
- C: Energized electrical equipment such as appliances, wiring, and machinery
- D: Combustible metals and dust such as magnesium or sodium
NOTE: The extinguisher’s letter or picture symbol indicates which class of fire it’s intended for
Fire Extinguisher LocationÂ
- Fire extinguishers should be easily accessible and located near unobstructed exits
- Extinguishers should be installed away from potential fire hazards such as heating appliancesÂ
- Extinguishers should be available every 75 feet
Proper Extinguisher Use: P.A.S.S
Before you activate a fire extinguisher, make sure you’re in a location near an exit. This way, if the fire grows too large, you won’t be trapped and can evacuate the building. Use the P.A.S.S. technique to extinguish the fire.
PULL the pin
AIM the nozzle at the base of the fire
SQUEEZE the handleÂ
SWEEP back and forth at the base of the fire until no flames are visible
Safety Resources
Preparation Guides
Fire Safety Resources
Commercial Property
Other Safety Resources
Watch a helpful video that shows How to Use a Fire ExtinguisherÂ
Watch another, more entertaining extinguisher usage video from Robby to the Rescue!
