IMPORTANT: Fire is dangerous and should be handled with extreme caution. In the event of a fire the most important factor is the safety of yourself and others. A fire extinguisher should only be used in the incipient (beginning) stages of a fire. If you are unable to determine the location of the fire and the content of what is burning, pull the fire alarm and evacuate immediately. If the building does not have an alarm, instruct everyone inside to evacuate immediately. Fires spread rapidly; if you have any doubt on how, or what type of extinguisher to use, it’s best to evacuate and call 911.
Before using a fire extinguisher:
Identify a safe exit for evacuation
Engage the fire alarm and/or notify everyone of the fire.
Using an extinguisher
Select the appropriate type of fire extinguisher
Discharge extinguisher within its specified range
If you are unfamiliar with the extinguishers range, 6-15 feet is a good range to start. Move further or closer based on your extinguishers range.
Remember the acronym: P.A.S.S.
Pull, Aim Squeeze, Sweep
1st: Pull the pin from the extinguisher
2nd: Aim the hose or nozzle at the base of the fire
3rd: Squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguishers contents
4th: Sweep the hose or nozzle along the base of the fire until it has ceased
If the fire reignites, repeat steps 2-4. If the fire isn’t extinguished and your extinguisher is empty: evacuate, pull the fire alarm, and call 911. We hope you never experience a fire emergency but it’s always best to be prepared.