How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

A Guide to Fire Extinguisher Use

A fire extinguisher is a great tool to have around the house. It can save you from a lot of trouble, but what happens when one has to be used? This is not as easy as it may look on television! Here are some tips on how to use a fire extinguisher.

Pull the pin out.

The first thing to do is pull the pin out of your fire extinguisher. To do this, you want to make sure that it's in the correct position and that it's pointing upwards. To ensure this, turn your head so that you can see what direction your fire extinguisher is facing. Then make sure the pin is facing up before pulling it out with your right hand.

Aim at the base of the fire.

Aim the fire extinguisher low towards the base of the fire. 

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

You may be tempted to squeeze the lever as hard as possible or to do it as fast as you can. But neither of these methods will produce effective results. The lever should be squeezed evenly, and not too slowly or quickly. The correct way to use a fire extinguisher is by squeezing the lever until the entire extinguishing agent is discharged from the nozzle (this may take multiple squeezes, depending on how much pressure was put into each squeeze).

Sweep from side to side.

The most common mistake made using a fire extinguisher is aiming at the base of the fire and in one spot. Sweep from side to side, aiming low—not directly into the middle.

• Do not use it on grease fires.
• Do not use it on electrical fires.
• Do not use it on chemical fires or gas fires (unless specifically labeled).

This is not as easy as it may look on TV!

There are a few things you need to know before attempting to use a fire extinguisher. First, you must be able to read the instructions on the fire extinguisher label. Second, practice using it in case of an emergency. 

In order for these steps to work properly, they must be followed closely by all individuals who wish to ensure the safety of themselves and others around them during dangerous situations involving flames. If you don't follow them closely then it can cause problems such as injuries while trying out different parts of your home

A fire extinguisher can be used to smother an open flame, but it is not a good idea to use one on large blazes. Instead, call the fire department if you have time and are not in danger of being injured by the blaze. A fire extinguisher should be used only for small fires that are contained or can be easily contained by a few people. If someone is burning their dinner or has lit something on fire in their home, using an extinguisher can immediately cool down the flames enough so they do not spread throughout your house or apartment building.

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