PROPER USE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS CAN SAVE LIVES AND PROPERTY

AUBURN, AL, Nov. 2---Findings from a recent study on the proper use and maintenance of fire extinguishers on farms and ranches in the United States show a high risk for serious fires, including those that involve combines and tractors, as well as fires in farm buildings.

Farm combine fires often result in a total loss to the machine. Fires often develop behind the operator's station on the combine, out of sight from the operator. The operator, upon noticing a smoldering equipment fire, may have little time to extinguish the fire before it spreads and consumes the engine compartment and cab areas.

One small fire extinguisher may not be adequate to control this type of fire and some insurance companies are now beginning to encourage farmers to outfit their combines with at least two accessible extinguishers.

The risk of serious farm fires is compounded by users who do not understand how to use a fire extinguisher, says Cook. A simple method for remembering the four steps in fire extinguisher use is the word PASS, which stands for:

P - PULL the pin. This unlocks the operating handle.

A - AIM the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

S - SQUEEZE the operating handle.

S - SWEEP from side to side as you knock down the fire.

Studies of fire extinguisher use on farms and ranches also show that in many cases there were no extinguishers readily available, while other extinguishers on the premises were not charged.

Keep fire extinguishers in areas where fire hazards pose the greatest threat, says Cook. This includes in farm shops and near machine refueling stations. Keeping fire extinguishers current and charged is the responsibility of everyone at the work site.

It is also important that the proper type of fire extinguisher be selected, adds Cook. For most farm and ranch applications, the ABC-type extinguisher provides the best protection. This type of extinguisher controls fires involving common combustibles such as wood and paper (Class A fires); flammable liquids such as gasoline and grease (Class B fires); and fires involving electrical wiring and machinery (Class C fires).

In case of fire, these simple rules should be followed.

• Evacuate any exposed buildings.

• Call the fire department immediately.

• Give the fire dispatcher precise directions to the scene.

• Make sure you have a clear exit away from the fire.

• Make sure you are using the proper extinguisher.

• Keep all bystanders and would-be rescuers away from the fire.

• Inform the responding fire service personnel of any special hazards at the scene.

SOURCE: DR. TONY COOK, Extension 4-H Program Specialist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System (334) 844-2233