How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Having a fire extinguisher in your home can help you fight small fires before they spread out of control. However, you need to know how to use it properly. The acronym PASS can help you remember the proper steps to take: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep. Keep your family and visitors informed so they can join you in a quick escape to safety. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the fire extinguishers are kept and how to use them. Also, review the operating instructions frequently during fire drills and when you go over your evacuation plan.

Before you can fight a fire, you must identify the fire’s location and create a clear path to exit. Then, sound the alarm and call the fire department. You may also want to inform occupants of the fire and alert them to evacuate the area.

Once you are at a safe distance from the fire, it is time to start using your fire extinguisher. Before you do, you must read the operating instructions carefully to understand what types of fires each type of fire extinguisher is rated for. It is important to know that a fire requires four elements to grow: oxygen, fuel, heat and a chemical reaction.

Class A fires, which are made of cloth, wood, rubber, paper, various plastics and regular combustibles, are handled by water extinguishers. They are a good choice for small house fires because they are simple and effective.

Class B fires, which involve burning liquids like grease or oil, are extinguished by carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers. This is a great option for commercial kitchens, laboratories and office workspaces because it doesn’t leave any residue.

Classes C fires, which are fueled by metals like magnesium and lithium, require an agent that doesn’t conduct electricity. Look for an extinguisher labelled with a ‘C’ symbol to put out these types of fires.

There are also multipurpose fire extinguishers rated for Class A through Class C, which are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. These are a good choice for most households because they cover the most common fires.

Once you have the right fire extinguisher in your hand, follow the PASS technique to discharge it. This means pulling the pin, which breaks a tamper seal and allows you to activate the extinguishing agent inside. Then aim low and point the nozzle or horn of the extinguisher at the base of the fire. Squeeze the lever, which releases the pressurized fire extinguishing agent into the fire. Then sweep from side to side until the fire seems to be out. Watch the area in case it re-ignites and evacuate immediately if the fire does not seem to be out. Recharge your fire extinguisher as soon as possible after using it, even if you only used a tiny amount. Otherwise, it will be ineffective in the next emergency.