How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

After fire damage, it is best to leave the rest to our team at SERVPRO. They are trained in fire damage cleanup, restoration and board up.

What Is A Fire Extinguisher And How Do I Use It?

A fire extinguisher is only useful if you know how to use the device. Be sure to check the class of extinguisher and identify a safe evacuation route. Follow these four steps to use an extinguisher to safely suppress a fire.

1. Check the Contents

There are four classes of extinguishers, and multi-class extinguishers can be useful for more than one class of fire. Class A extinguishers often put out fires involving commonplace combustibles such as paper or wood. Class B extinguishers contain materials designed to put out fires involving flammable liquids such as grease or gasoline. Class C extinguishers are designated for electrical fires. Class D extinguishers are suitable for use on flammable metals. Multi-class extinguishers may be labeled A-B or A-B-C.

2. Pull the Pin

Pulling the pin on a fire extinguisher will break the tamper seal. After you do so, an extinguisher will need to either be disposed of or refilled. Some extinguishers are designed for one-time use while others are refillable.

3. Aim the Extinguisher

Point the horn, hose, or nozzle of the extinguisher toward the bottom of a fire. You should be careful not to touch the horn on a CO2 extinguisher, as it may become extremely cold.

4. Squeeze and Spray

Spray horizontally from side to side across the base of a fire until it appears to be out. The fire may reignite, so it is a good idea to keep an eye on the area and call firefighters to ensure that it has been completely suppressed.

Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher can prevent fires from spreading and destroying nearby residences in Lake Balboa, CA. If a kitchen fire or another type of fire breaks out in any part of your home, the right extinguisher class may limit the damage. Hire a fire damage restoration company to clean and restore the affected area.