Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are labeled with letters and/or pictograms to indicate the type of fire on which the extinguisher is effective. There are three basic classes of fire extinguishers. They are:
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Class A: Ordinary Combustibles Fire - such as paper, wood, trash, plastics, fabric and rubber. |
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Class B: Flammable Liquids Fire - such as gasoline, oil, grease, paints and solvents. |
Class C: Electrical Fire - energized electrical equipment; such as appliances, computers, circuit breakers, wiring.
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Remember P.A.S.S. when fighting a fire:
There are four basic steps to using a fire extinguisher: PULL, AIM, SQUEEZE, SWEEP
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PULL the safety pin by grabing the ring and twisting. |
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AIM the hose at the base of the fire. |
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SQUEEZE the handle. |
SWEEP the hose from side to side while discharging.
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When should I use my extinguisher to fight a fire?
Use Only if:
- the fire is not large or spreading
- occupants have been alerted
- everyone has left or is leaving the building
- 9-1-1 has been called
- you have a clear escape route that won't be blocked by fire
- you know how to operate your extinguisher and are aware of its capabilities
- Don't fight a fire in any other circumstance. Leave the premises immediately, close
the area and call 9-1-1 from a neighbor's house.
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Where should I install my fire extinguisher?
Extinguishers should be installed in plain view, above the reach of children, near an escape route, and away from stoves and heating appliances.
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NOTE: The links provided below offer content about fire prevention and safety. These links were found to be helpful and informative at the time they were posted here.
Always remember in an Emergency DIAL 911.
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