Protection: Fire Extinguishers

All fires need fuel to start and spread and fire extinguishers can sometimes help you control both. But your first response is always to leave the scene of a fire quickly and safely.

NEVER attempt to fight a fire that is out of control. In situations where fires are small or contained, fire extinguishers may be an option.  The types (classes) of fuels that feed fires can vary, and the extinguisher required to put them out varies as well.

The three major classes of fuel for fires are as follows:
A — common combustibles, such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, trash and plastic
B — flammable liquids, such as oil, paints and solvents
C — electrical equipment, such as wiring, fuses, appliances and motors

Fire extinguishers are labeled with the letters A, B and C to let you know the types of fires they extinguish. Do not attempt to put out a fire with an extinguisher that was not designed for that type of fire.

The average home should have a multi-purpose ABC-type extinguisher on each level of the home, plus an extinguisher (BC type) for the cooking area.  BC-type extinguishers cause less damage to appliances and furniture finishes and are preferred for kitchens.

Using a Fire Extinguisher

The easiest way to remember how to use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire is the PASS method:

P — PULL the pin on the fire extinguisher
A — AIM the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire
S — SQUEEZE the handle on the fire extinguisher
S — SWEEP the fire extinguisher back and forth repeatedly to cover the base of the fire

After using a fire extinguisher, clean up the extinguishing agent using a broom, then vacuum and clean the area with soapy solution or ammonia based cleaner, based on the directions provided.

Remember to check your gauge or “pindicator” regularly, according to the directions provided. Replace or recharge if it does not read "full".

Where to Install your Fire Extinguishers

The first step in ensuring effective warning and protection by fire safety equipment is to ensure that it is installed properly. Follow the tips below when installing fire extinguishers:

• Install an ABC-rated fire extinguisher on every level of your home, with an additional BC-rated extinguisher in the kitchen and garage.
  
  
• Install fire extinguishers securely on the wall using the bracket or hardware provided. Position the extinguisher vertically – i.e. “standing up,” not “lying down.”
  
  
• Ensure the fire extinguisher is easy to access in case of a fire – do NOT block it with furniture, appliances or boxes.
  
  
• Ensure that fire extinguishers are always within reach