It is important to help and advise the public that with proper training and education and giving proper information about how to use a fire extinguisher correctly, fire extinguishers can save lives and property both. Many adults might not know how or when to use fire extinguishers because they do not learn properly.
Anyone who is likely to have to use firefighting equipment should be trained in its use and in basic fire-fighting techniques because it is very important during fire and also It is essential that the right type of extinguisher is used for the fire, this also learn, because choosing the wrong type of extinguisher can have life-threatening consequences.
Explain the types of fire extinguishers
There are five primary types of fire extinguishers. It is as follows.
- A is use for ordinary materials like cloth, wood and paper.
- B is used for combustible and flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, oil and oil-based paints.
- C is used for electrical equipment like appliances, tools, or other equipment that is plugged in.
- D is use for with flammable metals.
- K is use for flammable metals.
One of the most cost effective ways to fight class A fires is water extinguishers, those fuelled by solid materials such as paper, wood and textiles.
Once you understand the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses, you need to be able to properly operate it and the best way to be ready for a fire emergency in your home is to study the steps below so you can protect your home and family.
Service of fire extinguishers is most important, every five years most fire extinguishers need an extended service. This means completely discharging the extinguisher, checking for internal corrosion, refilling and depressurizing all things checked and service properly.
Every five years most fire extinguishers need an extended service and maintenance properly, this means completely discharging the extinguisher, checking for internal corrosion, refilling and depressurizing, these maintenance is necessary when we use of fire extinguisher because Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extinguishers need an extended service every 10 years.
You learn that fire extinguisher labels also include symbols to indicate which types of fires the extinguisher is designed to fight and there is a circle and a red slash through any of the symbols that indicates that the extinguisher cannot be used to fight that type of fire.
Call the people for help before attempting to extinguish a fire and use a fire extinguisher. A fire may grow out of control more quickly than you anticipate and it is wise to have help on the way.
You have noticed that in case your fire extinguisher has been sitting around collecting dust, here’s everything you need to know before brushing it off and fighting a fire in your home the right way and taking the right decision before using the fire extinguisher.
How to use a fire extinguisher is as follows
1. Identify a clear exit/escape route
Before operating the fire extinguisher, make sure you have a clear evacuation path because if you cannot put out the fire, you will need to make a safe exit from home and build multiple retrieved options from home..
2. Stand back
Do not be afraid of fire and face it, keep your back to the clear exit you earlier identified. You should stay between seven and eight feet away from the flames as you prepare to operate the fire extinguisher.
3. Discharge extinguisher
It can be difficult to think clearly during an emergency because our minds are stuck during that time, so fire safety has a long-standing acronym to help you recall the steps involved in operating your fire extinguisher.
When operating a fire extinguisher, tell residents to remember the word PASS; it is very easy to remember:
Pull the pin on the fire extinguisher and hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire and point the nozzle of hose at the base of the fire. Please do not touch the horn on a CO2 extinguisher because it is very cold and can damage the skin.
Squeeze the handle or lever slowly and evenly to discharge the extinguisher properly.
Sweep the nozzle back and forth from side to side until the flames are extinguished.
4. Keep an eye on things
After the flames appear to be out, continue to watch the fire area to make sure that it doesn’t reignite and check if the fire does start up again, repeat the PASS process.
5. Call the fire department
If you didn't call the local fire department before discharging the fire extinguisher, do so now. They will be able to inspect the site of the fire and make sure that it is completely extinguished, their advice is necessary for you.
6. Get to a safe place
Neither once the fire is out nor if you are unable to extinguish the fire, leave the scene and find a place out of reach of the fire, it is the final step.
If you cannot use the fire extinguisher properly or if the extinguisher becomes empty, evacuate yourself and everyone in the building immediately, closing all doors of your home and going outside of the home, immediately call the fire brigade.
Some importance of fire extinguisher maintenance is following.
It is also educated on the importance of fire extinguisher maintenance, many extinguishers have gauges that show when pressure is too high or too low, check the pressure level, make sure that the working part like can, hoses and nozzles aren’t damaged, dented, or rusted.
Remove any dust, oil, or grease that might be on the outside of the extinguisher, cleanliness is important so remove any dust, oil, or grease that might be on the outside of the fire extinguisher
Guidelines and instructions are necessary about fire extinguishers because some extinguishers need to be shaken monthly; others need to be pressure tested every few years.
Common fire extinguisher mistakes are following.
Read properly the operating instructions that came with your fire extinguisher and also make sure all able members of your home read and understand the important instructions.
See the expiry date of fire extinguishers, fire extinguishers come with an expiration date, after which the extinguishing agent is no longer effective and the use of fire extinguishers is not proper work. Know the expiry dates on your fire extinguishers and replace them as needed.
Make sure that everyone in your home knows where the fire extinguishers are kept and share the location and use of the fire extinguisher with everyone.
The best way to keep your home and family safe in the event of a fire is to be prepared and all family members have known how to use a fire extinguisher. Regular reviews point out the location of each one in your home.
