Fire Safety Tips about using Portable Extinguishers

Occasionally fires can be handled by the public, but knowing the correct way to use a portable fire extinguisher is still very important.  Rabun County Assistant Fire Chief Justin Upchurch offers this safety advice about using portable extinguishers.  “Portable fire extinguishers can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives but portable extinguishers have limitations.  Because the fire grows and spreads so rapidly the number one priority for residents is always to get out safely.  As a general rule, firefighting should be left up to the fire department.  Only adults who know how to use a portable extinguisher should use them.  For your home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher, which can be used on all types of home fires that is large enough to put out a small fire but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle.  Read the instructions that come with your extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out.  Keep your fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so that you can make an easy escape if the fire can’t be controlled.  If the room starts filling with smoke, leave immediately.  Know when to go.  When fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan but the primary element is safe escape.  Every household should have a fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.  Fire extinguishers are helpful for immediate use on small fires.  Before you try to fight the fire, make sure you know how to use the extinguisher and it is the correct type.  Make sure everyone else has left the home and someone is calling the fire department.  Make sure the fire is small, confined, and not spreading, and make sure you have a clear escape route.  Use the extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area such as a wastebasket and is not growing.  To operate a fire extinguisher remember the word PASS.  P – pull the pin, hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.  A – aim low and point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.  S – squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.  S – sweep the nozzle from side to side.  If the fire doesn’t go out after using one extinguisher, back out of the room and get outside.  You need to maintain your fire extinguishers or at least make sure they’re in working order.  About all you need to be doing is check the gauge to make sure it is in the recommended pressure level.  Look at the working parts, make sure the can, the house, and the nozzle are not damaged, dented, or rusted.  Make sure they are clean.  If they are dusted or covered in oil or grease, make sure it’s clean.  If you have portable extinguishers, try to inspect them at least once a month and then have them serviced by a professional annually.  As a general rule, portable extinguishers for the home should have a rating of at least 2A and 10B.”  Please follow this fire safety advice and remember property can be replaced but lives cannot.