FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

When properly used, a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by extinguishing a fire or by containing it until the Fire Department arrives.

Fire extinguishers are labeled according to the type of fire on which they may be used.

Type A Label- Ordinary combustibles, such as wood, paper, clothe, rubber and many plastics.

Type B Label- Flammable liquid fires such as oil, gasoline, paints, lacquers, grease and solvents.

Type C Label- Energized electrical equipment such as wiring, fuse boxes, electric motors, and other electrical equipment.

Type D Label- Metal fires such as magnesium, titanium and sodium.

Type ABC Label- Multi purpose extinguisher that can be used on any of the three class ABC type fires.

       The ABC multi purpose extinguisher is recommended for the home since it can be used on any of the three classes of fire.

USING A FIRE EXTINGUISHER

The easiest way to remember the correct way to use a fire extinguisher is to remember the word “PASS”.

P- Pull the pin.

A- Aim at the base of the fire.

S- Squeeze the lever.

S- Sweep from side to side.

WHEN TO FIGHT A FIRE

First make sure that no one is in danger or that everyone has left the building.

The Fire Department has been called.

The fire is small enough to extinguish with the extinguisher on hand or can be confined.

You have an escape route if you are unable to extinguish the fire.

The extinguisher is in working order and rated for the type fire you are fighting.

You feel confident you can operate the extinguisher effectively.

Remember- “If In Doubt, Get Out”