Fire safety is a crucial and non-negotiable part of any property. Whether it is a residential, commercial, or industrial space, there should always be a fire extinguisher within reach to ensure the safety of those indoors.
As many firefighters and fire departments know, the difference between life and death could depend on the nearest fire extinguisher in a premise. Knowing where your extinguisher is and how to use it could even save precious moments, and provide enough time to save you, your loved ones, and your property.
In this article, we will share three points that you should know about fire extinguishers:
1. There’s more than one type of fire extinguisher
Specifically, there are four classes of fire devices: Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class D. Class A fire extinguishers normally deal with ordinary combustibles, such as wood, paper, drapes, and upholstery. Class B fire devices are suitable for kitchens, restaurant spaces, and auto shops. They are meant to put out fires involving flammable and combustible liquids, such as gasoline, frying grease, solvents, and other flammable liquids.
Class C fire extinguishers, on the other hand, are made for fires involving electrical equipment, such as wiring, overheated fuse boxes, conductors, and other electrical sources. Class D fire extinguishers are made for fires involving magnesium and sodium, which are normally found in chemical plants.
2. Certain devices are better suited for different locations and areas
If you’re planning to have multiple fire extinguishers in your home, you can’t just put any type of device in any room. Class A, B, and C fire extinguishers, for example, are suitable to be used in the basement and the garage. The device from Class B and C are essential for any kitchen. On top of that, one from Class A is needed for the living room. Ideally, these should be placed near an exit but where children can’t reach them so that you can avoid unwanted hazards.
In the workplace, all employees should always know where the devices are located. They are best in hallways, the kitchen, and near exit doors. The average office would likely need Class A extinguishers, with some Class A, B, and C and Class B and C devices in specific areas.
3. How to use a fire extinguisher
Keep in mind that most fire extinguishers operate the same way, depending on their size or use. As a rule of thumb, following the P.A.S.S. method will help you operate it the right way:
- Pull the pin.
- Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze or press the handle.
- Sweep the base of the fire side-to-side.
While some fire extinguishers have additional steps, such as releasing a lock latch, most of them generally follow this set of steps. It’s also important to use them after the people inside have exited safely. After the situation is under control, remember to replace disposable fire extinguishers and recharge the ones that have been used.
Conclusion
Familiarizing yourself with fire safety procedures can effectively be a line protecting you and your family from harm. Fire safety should not be taken lightly and should be considered a necessary expense in any household, office, or industrial space. While many fire safety regulations are in place to be preventive, malfunctions and errors are inevitable. Seeing that the risk of fire can happen at any time, a fire extinguisher could just save your life.
If you want to know more about fire extinguishers and fire protection, head on over to Atlantic Fire Protection. We provide annual inspections and even sell robust pieces of extinguishers. Get in touch with us today to see how we protect you, your family, and your property!