How to safely use a fire extinguisher properly
Every company who aim towards safety should understand the usage of the fire extinguishers and the side effect when it is not been used the safe way.
It is not just enough to have a fire extinguisher laying around the company, but the ability to know how to use it safely without causing more damage during a fire accident is very important to the safety of the people and the environment.
Below are steps to using a fire extinguisher safely.
Let first quickly run through the different types of fire available.
Class A: These fires are fueled by solid combustibles like wood, paper and cloth.
Class B: These fires are fueled by flammable liquids such as oil, petroleum, and gasoline.
Class C: These fires are started or fueled by faulty wiring, fuse boxes, and appliances.
Class K: These fires are started or fueled by cooking oils and greases, animal fats and vegetable fats.
All fire extinguisher are labeled for the right fire types while most of the fire extinguisher is often multiple purposes.
1. Trace out an exit route
To ensure safety use of fire extinguishers and safety of both humans and the environment, it is very important to first trace out an exit route. The need for multiple exit route is definitely a added advantage.
2. Stand a back.
During the process of setting the fire extinguisher into motion, it is also important you stand a back. Keep your back clear and close to the traced put exit route. You should stand six to eight feet away from the fire you are about to quench.
3. Discharge the fire extinguisher.
It can be difficult to think clearly during an emergency, so fire safety has a long-standing acronym to help you recall the steps involved in operating your fire extinguisher. When extinguishing a fire, you should PASS:
P: Pull the pin on the fire extinguisher.
A: Aim the extinguisher nozzle on the hose low, toward the base of the fire.
S: Squeeze the handle or lever to discharge the extinguisher.
S: Sweep the nozzle back and forth. Keep the fire extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire and move it from side to side until the flames are extinguished.
4. Focus on fire.
It is very safety intelligent to ensure you keep an eye on the fire to ensure it doesn’t reignite.
For situations where people do not have appropriate idea of usage. It is much more safety oriented to reach out to the fire department.