You should always have a fire extinguisher in your home, but it’s not enough to simply keep one under the kitchen sink. If there's ever been an emergency and you need this tool for saving lives or property - knowing how they work is key.
The fire extinguisher is a vital tool for protecting homes from fires. But before you can use it, there are some things to remember and understand about fighting blazes in your house.
The first thing you should know is what types of fire there are, and the second that not every fire can be put out with an extinguisher. Ensure your extinguisher works with your specific type of fire.
Typically, a household fire falls into one of these categories:
Class A: These are fires caused by solid combustibles such as paper, wood, and cloth.
Class B: Fuel for these fires is liquid flammables like oil, petroleum, and gasoline.
Class C: Electrical, fuse-box, and appliance failures cause these fires.
Class D: These fires are caused by fats and oils from cooking, livestock, and vegetables.
There is a label on each fire extinguisher indicating which classes of fire the extinguisher can fight. There are many household fire extinguishers that can be used with A,B, andC classes of fires. A Class K extinguisher is heavier duty and will have to be purchased separately. Considering the recommendations of the Fire Department Connection, we suggest this 6-liter extinguisher.
Fire extinguisher labels also include symbols to indicate which types of fires the fire Extinguishers are designed to fight. For example, an X through a circle means that this particular type cannot be used because it is rated too low for our kitchen appliances and only has limited amounts before needing more water than what we provide at home with them (for safety reasons).
- An A class fire has a rating of 1 to 40
- A fire of class B is rated between 1 and 640
- A fire of class C is not rated.
Keep in mind that higher-rated extinguishers are typically heavier, so be sure that the fire extinguisher that you keep at home is one that is comfortable to handle.
How to Properly Use Fire Extinguisher
The best way to protect your home in case of fire is by identifying the different types and uses for each type, as well as practicing regular operating procedures on a fire extinguisher inspection nj. They also serve as a failsafe when you need one most so make sure not only do know how but practice regularly!
Find Escape Route
In a crisis, it's essential to have a clear escape route planned. Imagine how difficult it would be without one? If there is nothing else that can be done and your building is on fire around you - go with what works! Consider storing them near at least two other exit points nearby in case anything goes wrong during the retrieval or operation of this lifesaving device
Stand Back
Face the fire and keep your back to a clear exit. You should stay between six and eight feet away from flames as you prepare for Operation Fire Extinguisher: The acronym used in fire safety is long-standing, so we can easily recall these steps when using our extinguishers during emergencies!
- Release the pin on the fire extinguisher.
- Aim the hose nozzle low at the base of the fire.
- To discharge the extinguisher, squeeze the handle or lever.
- Back and forth sweep the nozzle. Extinguish the flames by moving the extinguisher from side to side until the fire is extinguished.
