Did You Know? The Fire Extinguisher Edition

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Keep yourself and your property safe by having the proper type of fire extinguisher available AND knowing how to use it!

We have all been taught since a very early age the importance of having a working fire extinguisher nearby inside of every building, especially where cooking is taking place.  But do you know HOW to properly use a fire extinguisher? Did you know that there are DIFFERENT TYPES of fire extinguishers, specified for different uses?  Finally, are you aware that fire extinguisher should be regularly inspected?  These “fire extinguisher specifics” are very important to keeping yourself, loved ones, and property protected, so let’s learn more!

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

The U.S. Fire Administration suggests the acronym “PASS” as a means of properly discharging a fire extinguisher:

P - Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

A - Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

            S - Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly

            S - Sweep the nozzle from side to side

Different Types of Fire Extinguishers/Uses for Each Type

The U.S. Fire Administration defines five primary types of fire extinguishers used to put out different kinds of fires:

1. A – used for ordinary material fires, such as wood, cloth, or paper.
2. B – for use with combustible or flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, or oil.
3. C – for use with electrical equipment like appliances and tools.
4. D – for use with flammable metals.
5. K – for use with animal oils, vegetable oils, and fats in cooking appliances.

Inspection & Maintenance

The U.S. Fire Administration provides the following information about fire extinguisher inspection.  At a minimum, inspection needs to consist of the following steps:

• Make sure the extinguisher is visible or that there is signage indicating where the extinguisher is located
• Make sure you can easily access the extinguisher
• Ensure the pressure gauge is in the operable range or position
• Make sure it is full, this can be done by just lifting the extinguisher or you can weigh it
• Make sure the extinguisher is not expired

In the unfortunate event that you home or business suffers fire damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Albany and Americus for help.  Available 24/7/365 for emergencies, our highly trained team is “Faster to any size disaster.”  Call now to learn more or request assistance: 229-439-2048

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Safety-equipment/Fire-extinguishers