Fire Extinguisher 101
Most people are aware of what a fire extinguisher looks like, but might not be aware of the finer points of using a fire extinguisher. Waiting until you actually need to use a fire extinguisher to figure it out might be a little too late. A small fire that would have been easy to put out can have the chance to get much bigger in the time it takes for you to figure out the ins and outs of using it. Below is a Q&A to guide you in choosing and using the right fire extinguisher.
How Does a Fire Extinguisher Work?
A fire extinguisher does exactly what it sounds like. It applies a chemical to the fire that will put it out by eliminating one of the things that fire needs to burn. Fire requires fuel, heat, and oxygen to remain going. Eliminating one of those needs will put the fire out, and that’s what the fire extinguisher accomplishes. Also not all fire extinguishers are made the same. Be sure to research which one is best for you.
How Do You Use a Fire Extinguisher?
Most fire extinguishers have the same design and operation to help people remain familiar with them no matter the class fire they are designed to put out. The basic operation is as follows:
- Pull the ring or pin located in the handle of the fire extinguisher
- Stand about 6 to 8 feet from the fire
- Hold the hose and aim the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire
- Squeeze the fire extinguisher lever or handle to release the chemicals
- Sweep the fire extinguisher hose back and forth until the extinguisher is empty
Boil this down to the acronym of PASS.
Pull the pin.
Aim at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the lever.
Sweep from side to side.
Fire Extinguisher Placement
Fire extinguishers should be placed in areas where there is a higher likelihood of a fire breaking out. They should also be easy to get to when a fire breaks out. Kitchens and garages are typical areas that should have their own fire extinguisher. It can be helpful to have an extinguisher on each level of your home or business. If you are unable to get to your extinguisher because of the fire or the fire has grown too large for the extinguisher to smother it, the best step would be to call 9-1-1 to allow the professionals to put out the fire.
Accidents with fires happen even when you are fully prepared with smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Peak Construction is available to lend a hand if a fire does occur in your home or business. Our trained staff is ready to help you with you to restore your home from the smoke and fire damage. We even will work your insurance company to assist in the process of getting your home back to you.