How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is a valuable tool in putting out small fires before they spread. It can also save lives and property by keeping people safe when they are trying to escape or get help for someone trapped in a fire. It’s important to know how to use a fire extinguisher and keep them in areas where they can be easily accessed, such as the kitchen or garage.

Each fire extinguisher has a handle, a mounting bracket and a cylinder or tank with an extinguishing agent inside. A nozzle or hose is attached to the end of the tank that shoots the extinguishing agent towards the fire. There is also a safety or locking pin that keeps the fire extinguisher closed during transport and storage until you are ready to deploy it. A pressure gauge on the side of the extinguisher shows the amount of pressurized gas inside it.

There are many different types of fire extinguishers, and each one is designed to put out a specific type of fire. Each has its own color and symbol that indicates what kind of fire it can put out. You should have a multipurpose ABC extinguisher on each level of your house and a fire-fighting foam extinguisher (also known as an “AFFF” or “FFFP”) in the kitchen.

Water fire extinguishers work by covering the flames with water, which removes oxygen and smothers the fire. They can be used on Class A fires, which are ordinary combustible materials like cloth, wood, paper and rubber. They can also be used on Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids such as gasoline, alcohol, oil-based paints and lacquers. They can even be used on electrical fires up to 1000v, but should never be used on energized equipment.

Class D fire extinguishers are made to fight combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium and sodium. You will find them in the chemical and metallurgical laboratories on campus.

When you are in an area where there is a fire, follow the instructions on your fire extinguisher and aim it low at the base of the fire. Then squeeze the handle slowly and evenly to discharge the extinguishing agent. Once the fire is out, you should sweep the nozzle left to right and then check the area for lingering flames or smoke before you leave. You should also call the fire department to give them details about the fire and to make sure there aren’t any lingering embers that can re-ignite the fire. You should also wait until the fire department has cleared the area before returning to it. Then you can be certain that there are no lingering fumes or smoke that could harm your health. In addition, you will want to inspect your fire extinguishers at least once a year to ensure they are working properly. It’s a good idea to keep an inspection log and write the date, month and name of the person who did the inspection.