3 Things To Know About Using a Fire Extinguisher

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

A fire contained in a trashcan could be extinguished quickly by an employee.

Three Things to Keep in Mind When Using a Fire Extinguisher

No matter the size, fires are dangerous. Employees need to evacuate a building if a fire is out of control. However, if a fire at your building in Dekalb, GA, is small and contained to one area, it is possible to eliminate the flames on your own using a fire extinguisher.

1. Know Your Equipment Before Disaster Strikes

While the steps required to use an extinguisher aren't exceptionally complicated under normal circumstances, things can change when a fire starts. The best way to prevent damage as a result of a small fire is to be acquainted with the extinguisher before you ever need to use it. This means yearly training on how to operate it. The more familiar an employee is with this device, the easier it will be to use when the time comes.

2. Assess the Fire Before You Act

A commercial building fire can cause fear and panic, but it's important to remain calm. The first thing to do during a fire is to activate the fire alarm. If a fire is large or out of control, employees should follow the building's evacuation plan and leave intervention to the fire department. If the fire is small, however, it might be possible to use a fire extinguisher to eliminate it. For example, it's possible that a kitchen fire on a stove or a fire contained in a trashcan could be extinguished quickly by an employee.

3. Use the Extinguisher Correctly

When using an extinguisher, here are a few things to keep in mind — although you should always read and follow your specific device's instructions.

• Pull the pin on the extinguisher; this will break the tamper seal.
  
• Always aim low and point the nozzle at the base of the fire.
  
• Squeeze the handle to release the firefighting agent.
• Step from side to side while using the extinguisher. Continue this motion until the fire is extinguished.
  
  

Repeat the last three steps with the fire extinguisher until the flames are out. If there is any doubt that you have not successfully snuffed the fire, evacuate immediately. Leave the firefighting to the professionals and the fire damage assessment to restoration experts.