This entry is part 13 of 14 in the series. You will typically need to be between 6 and 8 feet away. When the fire department arrives, they can check that the fire has been extinguished properly. This article has been viewed 642,308 times. It’s important to help the public understand that with proper training and education, fire extinguishers can save lives and property. Thank you! However, it is just as crucial for an employee to know when using the extinguisher will work, this is why keeping your fire equipment maintenance up to date is essential. If the extinguisher runs out of agent and the fire is still going, leave immediately. Auto Service Repair Shops The fire extinguisher is one of the best safety tools in the event of a fire that any employee can handle. Artisan Contractors & Cleaning Businesses Knowing how to operate a fire extinguisher could mean the difference between minor damage and a full-scale disaster at your business. ", "Best layout. If you don’t think you can fight the fire, or if you have any doubts, evacuate the building immediately and call the fire department. If in doubt, buy a new extinguisher. If you discover a fire early on yourself, a well-maintained fire extinguisher can possibly prevent it getting worse. That’s class A, B & C. Thank you. Don't put it off, otherwise you might be stuck without a working fire extinguisher during the next emergency. No. Presentation Summary : Fire Safety & Fire Extinguisher Use Introduction Fire is one of the most common serious hazards that you can face in … There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Squeeze the lever on the fire extinguisher slowly. For instance, electrical systems caught on fire must be extinguished with a CO2 extinguisher, while most common fires should be put out by regular ABC dry powder extinguishers. Encourage people to contact their fire department if they would like fire extinguisher training or have any questions. If you're scared to use it, then be sure to have a professional check it. An example of a contained fire is a wastebasket fire. Aim the nozzle down low towards the base of the fire from a safe distance away. This is reflected in the handling and operation. What can be used in place of an extinguisher? The manual contains general information on the installation, use and maintenance of the extinguisher. ", "This article is very useful to me. This information does not amend, modify or supplement any insurance policy. I'm pretty sure I'll be, "I am an environmental health & safety professional and this is a very helpful and useful page. What do I do if I pulled the pin on the extinguisher, but the extinguisher wasn't needed? It's hard to say with each case, without knowing further details, including just what sound it is you're referring to. ", "This is really perfect. ", "It's nice. To learn important fire extinguisher safety tips, keep reading. Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from Society Insurance Blog. Great job! Your business is your livelihood, and it’s our job to do all we can to help you protect it. This includes any glowing embers, which can reignite. Portable Fire Extinguishers Fire Extinguisher Use. That is why fire extinguishers are so important. All coverages and limits are subject to the terms, definitions, exclusions and conditions in the policy. Never turn your back on a fire. The extinguisher nameplate (label) contains information specific to “HOW TO USE” the particular extinguisher. If it is past its useful date, then it must be replaced. It varies, but fire extinguishers usually include the following parts: the container, a handle/lever, a hose with a horn or nozzle, a safety pin and seal, a pressure gauge, a refillable cap, the fire extinguisher contents, and a tube filled with a gas canister or CO2 cartridge. Where should I be when using the extinguisher, in front of or behind the fire? ", use which types of extinguishers from this. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher trainings. Sweep the hose from side to side while continuing to point the hose at the base of the fire. Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled. Know when to go. Depending on the type of fire class you need to extinguish, you need to use an appropriate type of extinguisher. Squeeze the operating lever to discharge the extinguisher. Safe Operating of a fire extinguisher. The PASS method works for many common fire extinguishers. Hotels & Hospitality Fire Safety & Fire Extinguisher Use PPT. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Now that the extinguisher is ready to discharge, hold the device so the nozzle is pointed away from you. This article received 33 testimonials and 91% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. Call the fire department or emergency services if they haven't already been called. Download this Fire Safety Checklist so you and your employees are ready to spring into action in a fire emergency. Sweep the hose from side to side while continuing to point the hose at the base of the fire. Fire extinguishers in non-residential or high/medium density residential areas may have a zip tie attached to the pin to let the fire department know that they've been used. Many adults might not know how or when to use fire extinguishers. Safely use a fire extinguisher in your workplace. Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket To operate the extinguisher, remember the word PASS For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (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. For more tips on using your fire extinguisher, check out this video from the Fire Extinguisher Manufacturer's Association. Thanks! Medical Offices Continue discharging until the fire goes out. The key to putting out a fire with an extinguisher is to use the PASS strategy: Pull the pin, Aim the hose, Squeeze the lever, and Sweep the hose. Then, aim the hose at the base of the fire and squeeze the 2 levers at the top of the extinguisher together to release the extinguishing agent. You are now trained to use a car fire extinguisher. To learn important fire extinguisher safety tips, keep reading. Thanks. This article covers the typical use of a fire extinguisher and precautions prior to use. Is it harmful if there is a sound coming from a previously used fire extinguisher? ", "Nice information, I like this website. Then, aim the hose at the base of the fire and squeeze the 2 levers at the top of the extinguisher together to release the extinguishing agent. Would you know what to do? Class D: Combustible metal fires such as sodium, magnesium, titanium, zirconium, lithium or potassium. This isn't the fuel source, and you won't get much progress. I like how you explained that a Class B fire extinguishers are best for flammable liquids like oil. I am glad that I found this article because I have never used a fire extinguisher before and it makes sense that you should aim low towards the base of the fire because this will give you a better chance of putting out the fire completely. Browse our Fire Prevention blog series, including these topics and more: Download this PASS system infographic to share: To learn more about how Society can help protect your business, contact your local Society Insurance agent. Fires occur for various reasons and generally cause wholesome damage to life and property. References ", http://www.fireextinguishertraining.com/en/rules.html, https://emilms.fema.gov/is909/assets/09_puttingoutfires.pdf, https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/portable_use.html, http://www.fire-extinguisher101.com/using.html, http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/fire-and-life-safety-equipment/fire-extinguishers, http://www.artofmanliness.com/2013/01/23/how-to-use-a-fire-extinguisher/. Aiming at the flames will cause the flames to blow around, allow it to spread and cause even more damage. Can a child use a fire extinguisher safely? Fire extinguishers should be tested annually by a reputable contractor and tagged with the date of inspection. For an easy-to-remember 4-step process to operating a fire extinguisher, learn the PASS system: P ull the pin while holding the extinguisher away from you to unlock the mechanism. How far away should I be while using fire extinguisher? Where To Place Them? ", "Great article with pictures, exactly what I wanted for my presentation. Bar & Tavern Insurance A wet cloth or towel sometimes works if the fire is small enough. A simple fire extinguisher training technique to use with employees is the PASS method: P ull the pin on the extinguisher. With your explanation I trained them, and, "The videos of fire extinguishers with the types of cylinders used is really very appreciated. These can help you put a stop to the fire while it is affecting a small area. Learning from Loss: Cooking Equipment Fires, Importance of Cigarette Smoking Policies at Your Restaurant & Bar, Clean Cooking Equipment to Prevent Grease Fires, 8 Steps to Reduce the Risk of Fire at Your Bar or Restaurant, Creosote in Your Restaurant Kitchen (It’s Not Just in Your Chimney), Fire Preventive Maintenance for Deep Fryers, Empowering Employees with Fire Safety Training and Response, << Fire Preventive Maintenance for Deep Fryers, Empowering Employees with Fire Safety Training and Response >>, View all posts by The Society Insurance Team, Artisan Contractors & Cleaning Businesses, 2021 Restaurant Technology Trends & Tips to Make Your Life Easier, The Society Insurance Blog: 2020 Year in Review, How to Develop a Flexible Work Schedule Policy, 4 Ways to Prevent Roof Collapse This Winter, Class A: Fires with ordinary combustibles such as wood and paper, Class B: Flammable/combustible liquid fires such as oil or gasoline, Class C: Electrical fires or fires on electrical equipment. Check the extinguisher yourself, inform a professional or replace it. Be prepared with the appropriate fire extinguisher based on the combustible materials you may come into contact with. The fire is contained by the walls of the wastebasket and won't spread. PASS is an acronym that reminds the fire extinguisher user to do the following: Pull the pin. Use of fire extinguishers can come with many risks, however, so workers must be trained on how to safely use them to put out a fire. Where should I leave the fire extinguisher after using it to put out a fire? Workers Compensation. ", "This is exactly what we have been doing during our fire drill! We’ve explained the four steps of the PASS method for using a fire extinguisher below. Rental Properties Many local fire departments will happily demonstrate proper fire extinguisher use. There is a gauge meter on top of the fire extinguisher. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. You have classified all the possible types of fire breakouts. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 642,308 times. The insurance tips and trends to help you make smart safety decisions for your business, plus an inside look at Society. Aim: Aim low, pointing the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire. To use a fire extinguisher, start by grabbing the small ring on the handle and pulling on it to remove the pin. If fire extinguishers are available for employee use, it is the employer's responsibility to educate employees on the principles and practices of using a fire extinguisher and the hazards associated with fighting small or … How do I know if a fire extinguisher is expired? This poster explains how to use a fire extinguisher, and it shows in four detailed steps the explanation of the acronym PASS. If your extinguisher is rechargeable, do it as soon as possible. Approved. I had no idea there was an acronym for using a fire extinguisher, I will have to write that down. Keep in mind that travel distance to a fire extinguisher from any point in your building shouldn’t be more than 75 feet for ABC extinguishers and 30 feet for K extinguishers. Looking for more information to keep your business safe from fire risks? ", "Used this for our monthly safety meeting. What are the different parts of a fire extinguisher? Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. A child might not be physically strong enough to trigger the extinguisher or to hold one. (You can unsubscribe anytime), Restaurant Insurance Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire. A im low toward the base of the fire. Does the fire extinguisher need to be placed on the ground before removing the pin? Thanks for the tips on using a fire extinguisher correctly. All the info I needed was found on this site. Call your local department to set up an appointment, or to find out about upcoming public demonstrations. This four step simple to use process is as follows: PULL the safety pin on the handle (This will also break the tamper seal) AIM the nozzle at the base of the fire (Don’t touch the plastic horn on CO2 extinguishers, it gets very cold and can damage skin.) Good, easy for group home use. Knowing how to operate a fire extinguisher could save your life in an emergency. How to Use a Fire Extinguisher It is important to know how to operate a fire extinguisher. However, before you use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire, it’s very important that you determine whether or not it’s appropriate for you to be fighting the fire, and whether or not you'll be able to put it out. This will also break the tamper seal. The fire extinguisher steps method is known as PASS, and each letter in the word PASS (P, A, S, and S) stands for the first word of each step. ", "Nice and straightforward advice which covers everything - thanks. Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher could save your life in an emergency. A fire extinguisher can keep a small incident from turning into a dangerous emergency. My husband and I recently bought a house and I want to get a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen in case there is an emergency. ", "Very helpful. wikiHow's. This will look different depending on the type of extinguisher. By using the acronym P.A.S.S., you can easily remember how to use your fire extinguisher in the event of a fire. It has reminded me of what these courses taught me. Pull: Pull the pin, this will break the tamper seal. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Depending on the size of the extinguisher, a distance of about 6-8 feet would work. This could cause a possible danger if somebody accidentally activates the extinguisher. All Amerex extinguishers are furnished with a detailed “Owners Manual” containing valuable information. Sweep: Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire, the … How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: An Easy 4-Step Process, Insurance Case Study: Crime Prevention for Restaurants, Bars & Taverns, Insurance Case Study: Identify & Eliminate Restaurant Fires, Insurance Case Study: Recovering from Property Damage and Employee Injury, Insurance Case Study: Workers Compensation and Subrogation – Recovering Money and Lowering Premiums, Insurance Whitepaper: Liquor Liability: Limit Your Exposure, Insurance Whitepaper: Mitigating Slip and Fall Risks, Basic Cooking Equipment Maintenance Requirements, The Risks of Serving Flaming Alcohol (It’s a Bad Idea), 7 Tips to Ensure Your Building Sprinkler System Will Protect You, Extinguish a Major Cause of Kitchen Fires. How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: There are four steps that you can easily remember by the acronym PASS. The zip tie is made to be easily broken. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism. If there is lots of smoke in the room, cover your mouth and get down on the ground. An easy way to remember how to use a fire extinguisher is to use the P.A.S.S method: Pull out the safety pin to activate the fire extinguisher. Also, these extinguishers can combat fire cases caused by electrical equipment up to 1000 volts. This information is not professional advice; it is designed to assist you in recognizing potential safe work problems and not to establish compliance with any law, rule or regulation. Fire extinguishers differ not only in terms of the extinguishing agent, but also in terms of form and function. But take a moment to think about how you would react during a fire emergency. These tips will totally help my friend out. Consult the actual policy or your agent for details regarding available coverages. Do not leave an empty fire extinguisher lying around, because somebody may try to use it in an emergency. Before you use a fire extinguisher to douse a car fire, ensure that the extinguisher is compatible to be used for that fire type. Thank you. Stay low to avoid the smoke and crawl out of the room to safety. This information contains only a general description of coverages and is not a statement of contract. A: Aim at the base of the fire. All the pin does is unlock the mechanism, so if everyone in the area is informed about this, it should be OK to keep it. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. ", "Helps to improve, just did a great job. Having a fire extinguishers is also quite important, so thanks for explaining that class c is best for extinguishing electrical fires. Quickly test it by aiming away before approaching the fire. Copyright ©2021 Society Insurance. ", "I have taken fire courses in the past. Either is fine, but have your back to the fire exit, and aim at the base of the fire. Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side. I hear my friend planning to buy a fire extinguisher for her new house. ", "I gained knowledge on how to respond to a fire and how to use fire extinguisher. By choosing Society, you’re not only getting one of the most comprehensive plans for your business, but a partner dedicated to your company’s continued success. Aim low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle (or its horn or hose) at the base of the fire. Do I need to unclip the hose to use the extinguisher or can I leave it alone and just point the extinguisher and sweep. ", emergency happens in the future, I know what to do. ", to be ready so as not to waste any of that power. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dc\/Use-a-Fire-Extinguisher-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-a-Fire-Extinguisher-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/dc\/Use-a-Fire-Extinguisher-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/aid41939-v4-728px-Use-a-Fire-Extinguisher-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"