How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Proper use of fire extinguishers helps prevent loss of lives and property, especially in areas prone to fire-related accidents. Homes, offices, factories, and other locations need fire extinguishers, to put out sudden fires and avoid disasters.

Employers must provide adequate fire safety training for their employees to prevent significant losses. Workers should know how to use a fire extinguisher and when to use one.

That’s why this article provides vital fire extinguisher training your company needs to guarantee safety against fire hazards. More information on when to use an extinguisher and other vital tips are in this guide too.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

The PASS acronym best describes four basic steps to properly use a fire extinguisher. What each letter signifies in the acronym is described in detail below:

P – Pull

A pin holds the seal on your fire extinguisher. Pull the pin to break this seal.

Without removing the pin and seal, your fire extinguisher remains secured from accidental use. Next, test the handles to see if they move. Test the handles while aiming your extinguisher away from people.

A – Aim

Approach the fire’s location while standing at a distance safe enough to use your extinguisher. Next, aim its nozzle towards the fire to measure how far the stream of extinguisher fluid can ravel.

After getting the extinguisher close enough, focus its nozzle on the fire’s base. Aiming the fire extinguisher properly increases its efficiency and reduces your spraying time.

S – Squeeze

Next, squeeze both handles to discharge its extinguishing agent. Keeping both handles squeezed keeps the discharge running while releasing your hold stops it.

S – Sweep

After squeezing both handles, sweep the nozzle from angle to angle while directing its focus at the fire.

Stubborn fires like Class A flames require probing after they get extinguished. Check for smouldering and hot spots that could ignite the blaze again. Direct your nozzle at these hot spots and squeeze the extinguisher to discharge its agent until no smouldering is visible.

Different kinds of portable fire extinguishers exist, and they usually have distinct labelling or colour coding.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher

You can use a fire extinguisher safely after taking the following precautions:

• Make sure the fire is contained and not spreading towards or around you
• Ensure the room is not filled with smoke before extinguishing a fire
• Confirm that everyone is out of the danger area in case the fire suddenly spreads
• Alert the fire department in your jurisdiction before using an extinguisher or have someone call them

Taking these precautions ensures no casualties occur because of the fire.

What Would a Fire Extinguisher Training Course Cover? Why is ACT the Best Choice for Professional Fire Safety Training?

Basic fire extinguisher training focuses on educating participants about the necessary steps to detect and put out fires.

Advanced CT is a professional general health and safety consultancy experienced in offering fire extinguishers. Our fire safety course covers every aspect of information participants need to use a fire extinguisher correctly.

If you’re interested in booking a safety course for your employees, sign up here or contact us to learn more about how we can help!