How to Properly Use a Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is a tank filled with fluid or chemicals that is capable of putting out a fire. Fire extinguishers can be found in homes, offices, restaurants, hotels, and more. Police officers keep a fire extinguisher in their patrol cars in case they encounter a vehicle fire. Fire extinguishers are life-saving devices when used properly. This article will explain the proper operation of an extinguisher.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fire extinguisher

1. Choose the proper location for your fire extinguisher. In general, it should be near items prone to catching on fire. For example, near the kitchen stove or outside by your grill.

2. To put out a fire, remove the pin from the fire extinguisher. The pin prevents the extinguisher from accidentally activating if you press the trigger.

3. Aim the fire extinguisher at the source of the fire, not at the flames.

4. Use the palm of your hand to push down on the lever so the contents of the fire extinguisher begin to come out. Push down slowly.

5. Move the nozzle of the fire extinguisher in a sweeping motion back and forth until the fire goes out.

6. Douse the area thoroughly until you are sure the fire is out. Keep in mind that it only takes one spark to get a fire to flare back up again.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all fire extinguishers are right for every kind of fire. The label shows which types each extinguisher can fight. Call your local fire department and ask them if they offer fire extinguisher demonstration programs. It is important that you learn ahead of time how to work your fire extinguisher.
• Call the fire department when you see flames. If you get the fire out yourself, they should still check that no embers remain. And if the fire is too big for your extinguisher every minute counts in the success of their efforts.

References

• How to Properly Use a Fire Extinguisher