Safety Tip of the Week – Portable Fire Extinquishers

Using a portable fire extinguisher is an important safety skill. You never know when you might have to use it; but do not attempt to use one if you haven’t been trained to use it. You could make things much worse.

Responding to fires:

Sound the fire alarm and call the local fire department immediately if a fire breaks out.

But attempt to fight the fire only if:

• You know the type of combustible material burning;

• You have been trained to use the fire extinguisher correctly; and

• If the fire is still in the incipient (beginning) stage. If the fire gets too large or out of control, evacuate immediately.

If the fire is small enough to put out with a portable extinguisher, you can do so swiftly by telling yourself to P.A.S.S. “PASS” is an easily remembered abbreviation describing the four-step process for most fire extinguishers:

• P – Pull the pin. On some extinguishers, you release a latch or press a lever;

• A – Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire;

• S – Squeeze or press the handle–or you may have to press a button to discharge the extinguishing agent; and

• S – Sweep from side to side, aiming at the base of the fire until the flames appear to be out. Repeat if the fire reappears.

•  Don’t turn your back on a fire once you think it’s out, because it could flare up again.

•  Avoid breathing smoke, fumes, or extinguishing agent.

•  Take care of the extinguisher and recharge it after each use.

 Get out quick…before the smoke gets thick!!