The proper use of portable fire extinguishers can extinguish many fires while they are still small. You should be aware, however, that the local Fire Department should be notified without delay as soon as any fire is discovered. These portable fire extinguishers are an important part of an overall fire safety program. It is important to keep in mind that the successful use of portable fire extinguishers depends on the following:
• The portable fire extinguishers are properly located and in working order.
• The portable fire extinguishers are of the correct type.
• The fire is discovered while still small enough for use of the portable fire extinguishers to be effective.
• the fire is discovered by persons who are ready, willing, and able to use the portable fire extinguishers.
Also, you should know that portable fire extinguishers are valuable for Immediate use on small fires. They contain a limited amount of extinguishing material and need to be used properly so that this material is not wasted. Proper training should be provided to residents and/or employees on how to use the portable fire extinguishers that are located in the designated areas. Operation instructions are frequently also provided on the side of the fire extinguisher. They clearly describe how to use the extinguisher in case of an emergency. You must also know what to do if your efforts fail.
There are three things to remember when it comes to using a fire extinguisher:
Use Your Judgment – Use Your Judgment – When you see smoke or fire you should use your own good judgment before you decide to extinguish the blaze. Ask yourself these questions:
Is the fire limited in size and spread?
Will you have an escape route if something goes wrong?
Do you know the location of the nearest fire extinguisher?
If you are confident the fire is controllable and your safety is ensured, attempt to put it out.
If the answer to any of these questions is no, evacuate the area immediately.
Communicate – Once you have decided to extinguish the blaze, make every reasonable attempt to tell at least one other person what you are doing. This person should report your activity to someone else as soon as possible.
Ready the Extinguisher – Quickly but carefully remove the extinguisher from its mounting bracket. Stand about six feet from the fire. Extend the nozzle toward the fire. ·
Use It- Use the P.A.S.S. Technique: Pull out the pin that secures the handle. Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire. Squeeze the handle. Sweep the agent stream from side to side across the base of the fire until it is completely out.
