Safety Made Simple

 

How to Choose a Fire Extinguisher

For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle. There are three general classes of residential fire extinguishers from which to choose:
  • Class A: For fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber and plastics.
  • Class B: For fires involving flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, solvents and oil-based paint.
  • Class C: For fires involving energized electrical equipment such as wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery and appliances.
For general living areas, choose a fire extinguisher rated A-B-C. For kitchens, garages and vehicles, choose an extinguisher rated B-C.

    FIRE EXTINGUISHER TIPS

    • When choosing a fire extinguisher, bigger is always better. Larger fire extinguishers last longer, giving you more time to fight the fire and get to safety.
    • Select an extinguisher with an easy-to-read pressure gauge and clear instructions.
    • Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory.
    • Install a fire extinguisher within reach on every level of your home, close to exits, and in the kitchen and garage. Include all locations where there is a potential for accidental fire.

    REMEMBER THE PASS WORD

      Stand 6 to 8 feet (1.8 – 2.4 meter) away from the fire and follow the four-step PASS procedure recommended by National Fire Protection Association:
    • P : Pull the pin and hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.
    • A : Aim low at the base of the fire.
    • S : Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly to discharge the extinguishing agent (When the agent first hits the fire, the fire may briefly flare up. This should be expected).
    • S : Sweep the nozzle from side to side, moving carefully toward the fire. Keep the extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire.

    USE SAFELY

      Fire extinguishers are only one element of a complete fire survival plan.
      Only use your extinguisher after making sure:
    • All residents of the home have been evacuated to safety.
    • The fire department has been notified.
    • There is a clear exit behind the person using the extinguisher。
    • Use your extinguisher only to keep a small self-contained fire from growing, only when the room is not filled with smoke, or to create a safe pathway out of the home. Read the instructions and become familiar with your fire extinguisher's parts and operation before a fire breaks out.