Putting Out Your Fire Extinguisher Questions

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

We specialize in fire and water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business.

Do you know where your nearest fire extinguisher is at work? Do you know how to use one? It is imperative to have a fire extinguisher on your property that is in proper working condition. In addition to knowing the location, it is important to know the type of extinguisher to put out fires and how to properly use them.

Q&A

Q: What are the different kinds of fire extinguishers?

A: The U.S. Fire Administration defines five separate fire extinguishers used on a variety of fires.

       A - used for ordinary material fires, such as wood, cloth, or paper

       B - for use with combustible or flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, or oil

       C - for use with electrical equipment like appliances and tools

       D - for use with metals that are flammable

       K - used for animal oils, vegetable oils, and fats in cooking appliances.

Although there are five separate categories for fire extinguishers, many of the types are multipurpose. If you look at the label, they carry multiple letter definitions and can put out many material fires.

Q: What is the proper way to use a fire extinguisher?

A: The U.S. Fire Administration uses the acronym "PASS" as a way to remember how to use an extinguisher properly.

       P - Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism. 

       A - Aim low. 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 becomes too hot to handle, be sure to call 9-1-1. To keep yourself safe, it is important to use extreme caution within a fire damaged structure. SERVPRO of Shakopee/Savage/Prior Lake offers a full line of fire clean up and restoration services. Give us a call at 952-403-1050 to learn more.