Fire Extinguishers

Fire Extinguishers may be used as an effective means of extinguishing infant fires. Fire extinguishers are NOT intended for fighting established fires. A common 5lb. 2A 10BC extinguisher may last as little as 10 seconds.

Listed below are some tips for the use and placement of fire extinguishers in your home or business:

·         Before attempting to put out a small fire, first alert occupants. Sound the alarm!

·         Placement Tips:

o    Make sure the extinguisher is within easy reach.

o    Do not block extinguishers with boxes, furniture, etc. When needed speed matters!

o    Make sure they are marked and highly visible.

·         If electricity is involved unplug the unit before you attempt to extinguish the fire.

·         Learn how to use fire extinguishers before a need to use them occurs.

·         If you are a business owner TRAIN YOUR EMPLOYEES.

·         Ensure your extinguisher is properly rated for the situation.

o    Class A: Works on solid burning material such as wood, paper, and cloth.

o    Class B: Flammable liquids such as grease, gasoline and oil.

o    Class C: Energized electrical fires. (Once unplugged it becomes a Class A fire) Class C fires include fire involving computers, breaker (fuse) boxes, and appliances.

o    Class D: Extremely flammable metals such as Magnesium. These are generally found in specialized industry settings.

The acronym PASS can be used to remember proper procedures for utilizing a fire extinguisher:

P – Pull the Pin
A – Aim at the base of the fire
S – Squeeze the handle or trigger
S – Sweep the base (bottom) of the fire

Keep sweeping the bottom of the fire until the extinguisher is empty.

Even if you think the fire is out, CALL THE FIRE DEPARTMENT!
It may re-ignite or there may be extension you can’t see.

Always remember – if an emergency should occur dial 9-1-1 as soon as you have safely removed yourself from the situation.