How to Inspect and Use a Fire Extinguisher

Fig 1. A Typical Fire Extinguisher

Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher if you need one? Or how to tell if it is charged and ready to use? This could be very important in an emergency.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Standard ABC Fire Extinguisher

1. 

   Classes of fires
   Before we discuss fire extinguishers, let's consider the different types of fires. There are four classifications labeled A, B, C, and D which differ in the substance that is burning.
   Class A: This is the typical house fire; it includes wood, paper, cloth, and other standard household materials. The Class A fire is the only type of fire that can be put out with water.
   Class B: This class includes combustible liquids such as gasoline, kerosene, oil, grease and other petroleum products. You can't use water to put out such fires because these substances will float on top of the water and keep on burning. In fact, spraying water on Class B fires can splash the burning liquid and spread the fire.
   Class C: These are electrical fires. Once an electrical spark starts a fire the burning materials are usually Class A. However you should never use water on an electrical fire since water conducts electricity. Spraying water on a live electric wire, fusebox of fixture can cause the current to follow the stream of water right back to you.
   Class D: This class includes combustible metals like magnesium flares. Most homes do not have such materials so they are not a common concern.

2. 

   Inspecting a Fire Extinguisher
   Most common fire extinguishers available at hardware and department stores are Class ABC extinguishers. Thus they are suitable for all Class A, B, or C fires. Figure 1 shows a typical fire extinguisher.

   All fire extinguishers should be inspected at least once a year. An extinguisher usually sits for several years unused and may lose pressure over a long period of time. Then it may not work when you really need it. It's a good idea to inspect your fire extinguishers at the same time you replace your smoke alarm batteries.

   To inspect the unit, first ensure that there is no visible damage. The nozzle, handle and trigger should show no obvious defects. Ensure that the retaining ring or pin is in place. This pin prevents the trigger from activating accidentally. Now check the gauge. Note that at the top of the dial there is a green area and a red area with a yellow pointer. The pointer should be in the green band. If the pointer is in the red area, the unit has lost pressure and likely will not work.
   Now turn the extinguisher upside down, then back right side up. Repeat this five times. Then check the gauge again. If the pointer is in the red area, replace the unit.

3. In case of fire
   If you should see a fire at home or at work, first call the fire department! (In most areas of the US, dial 911.) If someone is with you have them call while you get the fire extinguisher. Fires can be very unpredictable and may spread quickly while you are getting the extinguisher. Don't wait until the fire is out of control. Call for help first!

   To use the fire extinguisher, pull the retaining ring/pin. Some are held in place by a thin plastic strap. This strap will break when you pull the pin. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. Do not aim at the flames but at the burning substance. Squeeze the trigger and sweep back and forth. The acronym "PASS" may help you remember the steps. Pull the pin, Aim, Squeeze the trigger, Sweep back and forth.

   A typical fire extinguisher will last only 10 - 20 seconds but it is very effective at putting out small fires before they become big fires. It is recommended that you teach your coworkers and family these steps for using a fire extinguisher.

Tips & Warnings

• P = Pull the pin

• A = Aim at the base of the fire

• S = Squeeze the trigger

• S = Sweep back and forth

• The retaining pin should always be in place when the fire extinguisher is not in use to prevent accidental discharge

• Always keep the nozzle aimed away from yourself, other people or animals.