It takes calm and courage to fight a fire. But before you use a fire extinguisher, be certain that you know how to operate one. Don’t just leave it standing in the corner until you need it.
Take the time to read the instructions and familiarise yourself with its parts.
Although there are different types of extinguisher, they all work in roughly the same way. However, you also need to make sure you know what type of extinguisher you have and what types of fire are safe to use on it.
A typical fire extinguisher contains 10 seconds of extinguishing power on average, so ensure you’re making wise use of it.
Am I Using The Right Extinguisher?
Your extinguishers will state which types of fire they are safe to use on. So you need to identify the type of material burning and which extinguisher is appropriate.
- Class A means it’s safe to use on wood, paper and fabric.
- Class B extinguishers are for use on flammable liquids like petrol, oil and paint.
- Class C is for fires involving flammable gasses including propane and butane.
- Class D can put out fires involving flammable metals such as magnesium and lithium.
- Class E identifies that it is safe to for use on electrical fires.
- Class F allow you to put out fires caused by cooking oils and fats.
Although it could be helpful to remember all of that, extinguishers tend to have the relevant information displayed on them. You don’t need to be an expert to fight a fire.
When it comes to fighting a fire with an extinguisher, deploy the P.A.S.S method.
What Is The P.A.S.S Method Of Using An Extinguisher?
The easy-to-remember acronym represents the four-step method you should use when handling a fire extinguisher:
- Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. This breaks the tamper seal as well as releasing the locking mechanism to enable you to use it.
- Aim low, at the base of the fire and not the flames. Do this by pointing the nozzle, horn or hose at the fuel source.
- Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent. Keep hold until the extinguisher is fully discharged as releasing the handle will stop this.
- Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it is completely out. And remember that the design of extinguishers allows you to stand at a safe distance, so make sure you do.
If the fire is not out by this point, then call the fire brigade and evacuate everyone to safety.
Ensure that any extinguisher you use gets replaced or refilled. That way, you’re sure that you have the best chance of success should a fire occur again.
Is Professional Training Available?
Few people actually have practical experience of using a fire extinguisher, and this could prove to be invaluable.
There are many businesses which will come to you and train your staff in how to use correctly use an extinguisher. However, next time you replace your fire extinguisher, practice setting off your old extinguishers before disposing of them.
It is important that everyone is aware, as incorrect use could have devastating consequences.
Don’t try and tackle a fire which is too big, or if you’re unsure about what to do in any way.
Trust your instincts and get to safety, as life is far more important than property.