Know Your Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is your best defense against fires that have just begun to burn. Fire extinguishers can:

...buy you enough time to get out of a burning structure, or

...extinguish fires completely if used properly.

Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher can worsen a fire. It is important to know the type of fire you are fighting before you attempt to use an extinguisher. If you have any doubt about the kind of fire facing you, don't fight it alone!

What kind of extinguishers are available?

Unless you know something about the many types of extinguishers on the market, buying one can be confusing. Extinguishers contain substances that fight different classes of fires. Some are multi-purpose extinguishers that can be used for more than one kind of fire:

Type A Fire Extinguisher:for fires that need a substance like water to cool burning materials down below ignition level. (Burning paper, cloth, wood, rubber, and plastics.)

Type BC Extinguisher:contains chemicals that fight: 1) Class B fires (flammable liquids, gases and greases), and 2) Class C fires (energized electrical equipment, electrical fire and burning wires).

The BC extinguisher never contains water because water conducts electricity and spreads burning oils or solvents.

Type ABC Extinguishers:Multi-purpose extinguishers that fight all three types of fires.

How can you keep time on your side?

When fighting fires, time is precious. Keep time on your side by knowing what's what and where to find it.

• Call your fire department first.
• Always keep your fire extinguishers serviced and ready for use. Pressure gauges and carbon dioxide containers should be checked monthly. All containers should be checked on a regular basis.
• Acting fast can make the difference between a small fire and one that consumes your whole building.

REMEMBER THE BASICS OF USING EXTINGUISHERS

Pull - the safety pin at the top of the extinguisher.

Aim - the nozzle, horn, or hose at the base of the flames.

Squeeze - the handle.

Sweep - from side to side at the base of the fire until it goes out.

Think of the word PASS to remember how to use the extinguisher.

For more information on fire extinguishers click here.