How To Use The Fire Extinguisher Like A Pro
by Norman Holden on 08/18/14
It is without a doubt that you have seen a fire extinguisher in your life. You probably have seen one as you go to banks, restaurants, and other commercial buildings. You might even have one or more in your home. But the question is this – do you know how to use one? If you see something on fire inside your house, it would be your instinct to grab your fire extinguisher. But once you grab it, are you sure you know how to use it? Read more and find out about using the fire extinguisher.
* Make sure you can use one effectively - Before using the fire extinguisher, it is important to know that you are indeed capable of using one. There are some factors that prevent people from becoming effective users of fire extinguishers. Some examples include physical disabilities and old age. If you are too old or too weak to hold a fire extinguisher, then you better let someone handle it.
* Make sure you have an escape point - You should make sure that you have an escape route in case you fail to douse the fire. So many people have fought fires quickly and as they did so they realized that they have been deprived from all possible escape routes. If your surroundings are too engulfed in flames, then it would be appropriate for you to get to the outdoors as fast as possible.
* Remove the safety pin - To start using the fire extinguisher, you must first remove the safety pin. Most fire extinguishers have one. The safety pin is what prevents the fire extinguisher from being used accidentally. It is usually a plastic or a metal ring. Sometimes, the safety pin is secured with a seal. You have to break that seal.
* Hold and aim - Once you break the seal, you have to hold the nozzle with one hand and the switch with the other hand. Your nozzle should be aimed at the base of the fire, not its tips. Shooting into the flames or over them is a waste of time. Stop the flame by targeting its base, its source. Sweep the nozzle from side to side as you spray the fire extinguisher contents at the base.
* Ask another person to help you - If the fire is not too big and you have a spare fire extinguisher, ask somebody to help extinguish the fire for you. The fire would be a lot easier to put out if more than one fire extinguisher is being used. Just make sure that the fire extinguisher is used properly for maximum effectiveness.
* Get rid of your fire extinguisher - Suppose the fire has been put out. Assess the area immediately and make sure that there would not be any chances of re-ignition. As to the case of your fire extinguisher, you have to dispose of it. It has been depleted. It has served its purpose. It would be very practical for you to get a new one.
These are some tips on using the fire extinguisher. Do not have a fire extinguisher in your home yet? Need your old one to be replaced? Contact Northern Academy Fire Protection INC.
