The Importance of Having a Fire Extinguisher

The fire extinguisher is an important safety tool in fighting small, localized fires that threaten a property or people. It can also save lives by preventing them from spreading to other areas and potentially causing more serious injuries. It is recommended to have a fire extinguisher handy in the kitchen, garage and other rooms where the risk of fire is higher.

Each fire extinguisher type is designed to tackle a specific class of fire. Before using a fire extinguisher, ensure that everyone has left the area and that the fire is small, contained and not spreading. It is also important to know what is burning, as attempting to use an extinguisher on the wrong type of fire can cause it to spread or re-ignite.

There are a number of different types of fire extinguisher, each containing a different chemical agent to tackle the corresponding type of fire. Dry powder fire extinguishers (Class A, B and C) contain chemicals such as monoammonium phosphate, potassium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate. These types of fire extinguishers work by forming a barrier that smothers the fire. They are not suitable to be used on electrical fires as the water can act as a conductor, posing an electrocution hazard.

Water fire extinguishers dispense a spray of microscopic, de-mineralized water particles to put out a fire by cooling it and preventing re-ignition. They are effective on Class A and Class B fires, but they cannot be used on electrical fires as the water may pose an electrocution hazard.

Specialist powder fire extinguishers (Class D) contain bromochlorodifluoromethane, commonly known as halon, to fight Class D fires involving metals such as magnesium or aluminium. They work by creating a smothering seal to stop the fire from getting air and also by breaking down metal oxides. Halon is a clean agent and leaves no residue, making it a good choice for computer equipment.

Halon extinguishers must be serviced regularly to ensure that they continue to work effectively. This involves monthly inspections to check that the fire extinguisher is still properly pressurized, free from damage, with a working nozzle and hose, and that the seal is not broken. It is also necessary to replace the cylinder every six years.

Whenever using a fire extinguisher, follow the PASS system: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep. Be sure to position yourself with an unobstructed escape route at your back, and stand six to eight feet (two to three meters) away from the fire. Remember to read the instructions and re-check the fire class before using the extinguisher. If you are unable to control the fire, evacuate the area and call 911. If you have a portable fire extinguisher, only attempt to use it when it is safe to do so, others have already evacuated the area and the fire has not spread. If a fire is spreading rapidly, if it is producing large amounts of toxic smoke or if it is in an enclosed area, leave the space and exit immediately.