P.A.S.S.

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business is in need of fire restoration, call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.

Purchasing and properly maintaining smoke alarms is by far the best home-safety investment you can make. Take the next step in fire protection by keeping at least one fire extinguisher on every floor of your home, including the basement and attic, if you have them. Garages, sheds, and workshops are typically full of combustible materials, be sure to keep a fire extinguisher close by. 

Fire extinguishers play a vital role in any fire protection plan and can help prevent catastrophic damage to property and even loss of life. They can mean the difference between a small localised incident that is quickly put out, or a raging inferno. 

Different Classes of Extinguishers

There are different types of extinguishing agents found in fire extinguishers, such as water, carbon dioxide, clean agents and dry chemical. The most common type unit found in most retail stores is the multi purpose dry chemical type. This type is important because it is classified  "ABC," which means it can be used on the main three types of fires:

A - Odidinary Combustibles (wood, paper, cloth and many plastics)

B - Flammable Liquids (gas, oil and grease)

C - Electrical Equipment (computers, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery and appliances) 

D - Combustible metal (sodium, magnesium, titanium, sirconium, lithium or potassium)

K - Combustible cooking media (Vegetable or animal oils and fats) 

Once you have selected the proper type of extinguisher make sure to install it in a visible area. A fire extinguisher does not command a large storage space. Their compact designs make them a good fit near areas where fires typically break out, such as near your stove. 

How  to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Pull the pin while holding the extinguisher away from you to unlock the mechanism.

Aim low toward the base of the fire.

Squeese the lever slowly.

Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the fire. 

Every extinguisher has steps and precautions on it. Review them from time to time before there's an emergency. Inspect your fire extinguisher regularly to ensure the pressure gauge is in the operable range and the unit is not damaged or expired. 

Knowing how to properly use a fire extinguisher could save your life in an emergency. However, before you use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire, it is very important that you determine whether or not it's appropriate for you to be fighting the fire, and whether or not you'll be able to put it out. If you have any doubts, evacuate the building immediately and call 911. If you have any questions about fire, smoke, or soot damage call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes at (712) 262-4379.