fire or containing it until the fire department arrives.
Portable extinguishers for home use, however, are not designed to fight large or spreading
fires. Even against small fires, they are useful under only certain conditions.
The operator must know how to use the extinguisher.
The extinguisher must be the right type, within easy reach, and in working order,
fully charged.
The operator must have a clear escape route that will not be blocked by fire.
The extinguisher must be large enough to put out the fire. Most extinguishers
discharge completely in as few as 8 to 10 seconds.
There are three basic classes of fires, Class A, Class B, and Class C. All fire extinguishers
are labeled using standard symbols for the classes of fires they can put out. A slash through
any of the symbols tells you the extinguisher cannot be used on that class of fire. A missing
symbol tells you that the extinguisher has not been tested for a given class of fire.
Selecting Your Extinguisher
Class A: Ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth and paper.
Class B: Flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil and oil-based paint.
Class C: Energized electrical equipment including wiring, fuse boxes, circuit
breakers, machinery and appliances.
The extinguisher must be appropriate for the type of fire being fought. If you use the wrong
type of extinguisher, you can endanger yourself and make the fire worse. Multipurpose fire
extinguishers, labeled ABC, may be used on all three classes of fire.
Remember the PASS-word
In the midst of a fire emergency is not the time to learn how to use your fire extinguisher. The
instructions for use are displayed on the extinguisher. Take time to read over these
instructions several times a year to remain familiar with them. While trying to extinguish a fire
with your fire extinguisher, always keep your back to an unobstructed exit, stand six to eight
feet away from the fire, and remember the PASS-word........PULL, AIM, SQUEEZE, and
SWEEP!!
PULL the pin: This unlocks the operating lever and allows you to discharge the
extinguisher. Some extinguishers may have other lever-release
mechanisms. Check your extinguisher and become familiar with its
release mechanism.
AIM low: Point the extinguisher nozzle (or hose) at the base of the fire.
SQUEEZE:
Squeeze the lever above the handle. This discharges the extinguishing
agent. Releasing the lever will stop the discharge. (Some extinguishers have a button instead
of a lever.)
SWEEP: Sweep from side to side, moving carefully toward the fire. Keep the
extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire and sweep back and forth
until the flames appear to be out.
Fire can re-ignite, so always be sure the fire department inspects the fire site, even if you think
the fire is out.
Portable fire extinguishers are also rated for the size of fire they can handle. The larger the
numbers, the larger the fire that the extinguisher can put out, but also, the heavier they
become. Make sure you can hold and operate an extinguisher before you buy it.
Remember, a small fire can quickly become a large one. The first step in fighting a fire of any
size is to call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number. If the fire is bigger than you are don't try
to put it out, go outside immediately!!
