How to use a Fire Extinguisher
How to operate a Fire Extinguisher
Community Fire Prevention Ltd. strongly recommends that everyone is well educated and has practiced “shooting off” a fire extinguisher before an emergency situation occurs. No one should ever feel uncomfortable about asking any questions when it comes to Fire Safety. We strongly recommend that everyone at least sees a demonstration or is able to shoot an extinguisher off for themselves prior to being subjected to an emergency situation.
Extinguishers are designed to save property, valuables and lives! No one who has ever needed to use an extinguisher in an emergency will ever tell you that having your extinguishers checked and serviced annually and properly is a waste of time or money.
When it comes to using a fire extinguisher the acronym P.A.S.S. is often applied.
P - Pull the Pin at the top of the extinguisher. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher. The pin is to be secured with a proper fastening strap. In the case that the pin and safety strap fail to break away easily, twisting the pin around in a 360 Degree motion should always snap the safety strap. Nails, Zap-straps, and other non-original certified objects are NOT a means of securing the pull pin into place.
A - Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire, NOT AT THE FLAMES. This is important in order to put out the fire, you must extinguish the fuel.
S - Squeeze the lever slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent in the extinguisher. If the handle is released the discharge will stop.
S - Sweep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, several feet away and then move towards the fire once it starts to diminish.