Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher

Fire Safety Tips: How To Use Various Fire Extinguishers

A fire extinguisher is a definite must in any home or establishment. There may be a good chance that these fire safety products will sit on the wall for years collecting dust and dirt but if the situation calls for it, do you have the confidence to actually use it? If the answer is no then this is your chance to learn more on this first line of defense.

The basic procedure involves the acronym P.A.S.S. which stands for “Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep”. In dealing with a small contained fire, you should be position yourself between the fire and an exit. In this way, you will have a definite means to exit the building in the circumstance that you are unable to handle the fire. Securely hold the fire extinguisher in an upright position. Pull out the pin from the extinguisher handle. It will allow you to squeeze the handle later on. If the pin is not removed, the handle cannot be depressed. Aim the nozzle towards the base of the fire. Squeeze the handle which will release the spray. Sweep the handle from side to side, covering the entire base of the fire. It is important you continue this sweeping motion until the fire is put out.

A fire extinguisher can definitely be a lifesaver especially if you know how to use them. There are many fire extinguisher types and some of them require specific instructions on how to use them properly. These can an advantage for you particularly when circumstances need it. Here are some types of fire extinguishers and proper guidelines on how to use them.

• A dry powder fire extinguisher is used for Class A, B and C fires. It is filled with powder and pressurized by nitrogen. To use this type of extinguisher, the first step is to squeeze the grip operation. Aim the jet at the base of the flames and promptly sweep it from side to side. In the event of spilled liquids, aim the jet or horn towards the near side of the fire and with a fast sweeping technique, propel the fire towards the far side until the flames are put out.

• Wet chemical fire extinguishers are best for putting out fires in commercial restaurants and kitchen fire hazards. The chemical solution filling this device is potassium carbonate. Once you squeeze the nozzle, it will spray out the chemical based solution. It then coats the surface of the fat and lets it cool down. Manipulate this device through the basic method of using a fire extinguisher.

• A foam fire extinguisher is used for Class A and B fires. The first step to handle this device is to pull out the safety pin and squeeze the lever. For solids, aim the jet at the base of the flames and move in the area of the fire. On the other hand do not aim the foam straight at the fire for fires created by liquids. Aim it at the vertical surface instead to avoid the fire from spreading in the surrounding area. If the liquid is still in the container, aim the foam at the inside edge to allow it to build up and flow across the surface and put out the fire.

• Hydrospray fire extinguishers are suitable for Class A types of fire involving combustible materials such as paper and wood. It contains a special additive which reduces water’s surface tension and inhibits fire propagation. When using this type of extinguisher, its innovative nozzle will ensure wide and accurate path of fluid in the specific area you want to deliver it. When pulling out the pin from the handle, it will show an ok indicator to reduce accidental discharge.

Remember that a fire extinguisher is only effective if it is properly used. It is essential for anyone to know the fundamental steps of using this device. It will also be an advantage if you are well informed on some essential information on the use of different types of fire extinguisher.