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Portable fire extinguishers are designed for use in businesses and in the home in case of a fire emergency. Some fires can be put out with an extinguisher, while others are used to contain a fire prior to fire department arrival. When in doubt, leave the area and do not attempt to fight the fire.

The Fire Emergency

 Prior to any fire emergency, read the instructions and know how to properly operate the extinguisher, as it is important for your safety.  Make sure the building or home is being evacuated.

 Make sure the fire department has been called.

 Make sure the fire is contained to a small area and not spreading.

 If the fire is spreading, leave the area immediately. Type of Extinguishers Make sure that the extinguisher that you are using matches the type of fire it is designed for. For example, extinguishers that contain water cannot be used for electrical or grease fires.

The types of extinguishers are as follows:

Type A – Ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth, papers, rubber and many plastics

Type B – Flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, grease, tar, oil-based paint, lacquer and flammable gas

Type C – Energized electrical equipment including wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, and machinery and appliances

*Many extinguishers are considered multi-purpose A-B-C models, and can be used on all three classes of fire.

How To Use The Extinguisher

Make sure that your back is to an exit and stand six to eight feet away from the fire.

Follow the four-step PASS procedure:

 Pull the pin: this unlocks the lever and allows the extinguisher to discharge. Some extinguishers may have other seals or tamper indicators.

 Aim low: Point the extinguisher nozzle (or hose) at the base of the fire

 Squeeze the lever: this discharges the extinguishing agent. If you release the lever, it will stop the discharge. Some extinguishers may have a button in place of a lever.

 Sweep from side to side: Moving carefully toward the fire, aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire and sweep back and forth until the flames appear to be out. If the fire re-ignites, repeat the PASS procedure.

Fire extinguishers are a very useful tool to businesses and homes. Make sure that extinguishers are installed in plain view, easy to access and out of the reach of children. Be sure that the extinguisher is fully charged and operating properly. Expired extinguishers should be serviced or replaced.