Knowing How and When to Use a Fire Extinguisher Could Save Your Life and Property

Auburn, Nov. 17, 2003 ---The most important decision to make when you have a fire in your home, barn or business is whether to fight the fire or escape.  This is a critical decision, that could make the difference between life and death. If a fire occurs, consumers should size up the fire quickly and determine if it is small enough to be put out with a fire extinguisher. 

“Before using any fire extinguisher, you should know the different types and how and when to use each type.  Facing a real fire is not the time for on-the-job training,” said Dr. Jesse LaPrade, an environmental and safety specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

Fires are classified into classes A, B and C.  Class A fires originate from combustibles such as wood, paper and textiles and require a quenching, cooling effect.  Class B fires are caused by flammable liquids, gasoline, oils, fats and paint, and oxygen exclusion or flame interruption is essential.  Class C fires stem from live electrical wiring, motors or appliances and non-conductivity of the extinguishing agent is crucial. 

Pressurized water fire extinguishers are for class A fuels only.  A dry chemical fire extinguisher can be used on all three types of fires if it is rated as an ABC fire extinguisher.

Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are commonly used on flammable liquids and electrical fires.

“Before fighting a fire, consumers should follow a series of steps,” LaPrade said.

·         Make sure that everyone is out of danger.

·         Notify the fire department.

·         Size up the fire.  Is it small enough to be handled by a fire      extinguisher?

·         Determine if the fire extinguisher is right for the fire. Is it matched to the type of fire?

      Is the fire extinguisher fully charged?

Never put water on a grease or electrical fire. This will only cause it to spread. 

Remember the word PASS when you need to use a fire extinguisher.   Pull the pin that unlocks the operating handle.  Aim the extinguisher low at the base of the fire while standing at least 10 feet away. Squeeze the lever on the extinguisher hose to discharge the agent and Sweep the nozzle or extinguisher hose from side to side.  Move slowly and carefully toward the fire, continuing to sweep the extinguisher back and forth at the base of the flames.  

Once the fire is extinguished, don’t turn your back on it.  Back away from the fire, watching it to ensure it doesn’t reignite.  If the fire was in a pan of grease, for example, the grease may be hot enough to reignite. 

Fire extinguishers should never be misused or abused. If an extinguisher is not ready to fight a fire because it has been discharged, then it has simply become a wall ornament—not a life-saving tool.

LaPrade said it’s easy to check the pressure on extinguishers.  There is a small gauge near the handle of the extinguisher. Usually an arrow will either point to a green area (enough pressure) or to a red area (not enough pressure). 

“Check the gauge on a weekly basis to make sure the extinguisher is ready to fight a fire. If it needs recharging, call your local fire department and ask if they can recharge if for you. Most fire department will recharge your fire extinguisher for free or a small fee.” 

In commercial buildings, there are ordinances as to how often fire extinguishers must be checked by a certified technician. At a minimum, extinguishers should be checked once a year.

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