How to put out a fire using a fire extinguisher?

Once you understand the many types of fire extinguishers and their applications, you must be able to operate one correctly. The best method to prepare for a fire emergency in your house is to study and review the procedures below on a regular basis so that you can safeguard your home and family.

 

 

• Make sure there is a clear way to safety before using the fire extinguisher. Make a safe getaway if you are unable to put out the fire. When deciding where to keep your fire extinguisher, keep this in mind, and make sure you’ll have access to a number of exits after obtaining it. 
• Keep your back to the open exit you originally noted and face the fire. As you get ready to use the fire extinguisher, keep your distance from the flames at six to eight feet. 
• Since it can be challenging to think clearly in an emergency, fire safety has a well-established acronym to aid in remembering the steps needed to use your fire extinguisher. When putting out a fire, you ought to PASS as follows:

 

P: Release the fire extinguisher’s pin

 

A: Aim the hose’s extinguisher nozzle low and towards the direction of the fire’s base.

 

S: Squeeze the lever or handle to release the extinguisher.

 

S: Back and forth sweep the nozzle. As you maneuver the fire extinguisher from side to side to  put out the flames, keep it pointed at the fire’s base.

 

• Continue keeping an eye on the fire area after the flames seem to be out to prevent a rekindling. 
• Repeat the PASS procedure if the fire does flare up once more. 
• Call the local fire department right away if you didn’t get a chance to do so before using the fire extinguisher. They will be able to check the fire’s location and ensure that it has been totally put out. 
• Leave the area as soon as the fire has been put out or if you are unable to do so, find a location where it cannot spread.

 

Not to forget: 

Often employed in emergency situations, a fire extinguisher is an active fire protection tool used to put out or contain small fires. It is not meant to be used on an out-of-control fire, such as one that has spread to the ceiling, endangers the user (i.e., there is no escape path, there is smoke, there is a risk of explosion, etc.), or otherwise calls for the resources, personnel, equipment, and/or experience of a fire brigade.