When and How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguisher

Always put your safety first; if you are not confident in your ability to use a fire extinguisher, get out and call 9-1-1. The American Red Cross cautions you to evaluate the situation and ensure:

• Everyone has left or is leaving the home
• The fire department has been called
• The fire is small, not spreading, and there is not much smoke
• Your back is to an exit you can use quickly

Learn about the different types of fire extinguishers; not all will work on every fire. For home use, the National Fire Protection Association recommends a multi-purpose device large enough to put out a small fire but not so heavy that it will be difficult to handle. 

Review the instructions once a year. If you need to use a fire extinguisher, there won’t be time to learn how to do it.

To use a fire extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS:

• Pull the pin.
• Aim low at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle slowly.
• Sweep the nozzle side to side.

Resource: National Safety Council