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Tips on Properly Using a Fire Extinguisher

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Tips on Properly Using a Fire Extinguisher

Whether you are at home or at work, you can greatly improve your fire safety measures by simply installing and maintaining a fire extinguisher. While many people have one in the home, it may have been sitting in the same corner untouched for years. Make sure you are maintaining and refilling the extinguisher when necessary, to ensure it is ready in the event of a small fire, or for temporary use until fire and recue services arrive. Here are some more fire safety tips relating to your fire extinguisher and its use:

 

Fire Safety Tips

 

Size can Make a Difference

 

Depending on the size of your space, make sure you will have an adequate amount of extinguishing power to fight or minimize any small fires, before help arrives.

 

Smother/Contain the Flames

 

It is wise to contain the fire in a waste basket or damp towel if possible. Any way you can cut off the fire’s source of oxygen safely is good. This can also help prevent the spread of the fire, and minimize any damage.

 

Call 911

 

One of the first things you should do, calling 911 will send the appropriate emergency response to your door. Unfortunately, these response teams cannot arrive in a blink of an eye, so the proper use of a fire extinguisher when appropriate can help buy more time, and minimize the strength of the fire.

 

Remember the Acronym PASS


When you are about to use a fire extinguisher, remember PASS. First: Pull the pin. Never point the nozzle at you when you try to release the locking mechanism. Next: Aim low. Go for the base of the fire instead of trying to kill it by aiming at the flames. Then, Squee the lever—do it slowly and evenly. You don’t want sudden moves here. You want to make sure you don’t let too much out, or you could run out quickly. Lastly, Sweep the nozzle. Side to side is the best way to do it.

 

Feel confident and prepared in the event of a small fire, through fire extinguisher training in Illinois. You could not only extinguish small fires effectively, but also buy time for emergency services in the event of a larger fire.

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