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Fire Extinguishers

Portable Fire Extinguishers:

When used properly, portable fire extinguishers can help save lives and property. They are also useful in containing small fires until the fire department arrives.

Portable home fire extinguishers are not designed to extinguish large or spreading fires. Even against small fires, they are useful only under certain conditions. Before using a portable fire extinguisher, be sure the fire department has been notified. A few things to remember are.

Extinguisher sizes:

Portable extinguishers are also rated for the size of fire they can handle. This rating is a number from 1 to 40 for Class A fires and 1 to 640 for Class B fires. The rating will appear on the label. The larger the number, the larger the fire extinguisher can put out. Higher-rated models are often heavier. Make sure you can hold and operate the extinguishers rated 1A or 2A and/or 5B, 10B, or 20B.

Fire Extinguishers ARE designed for:
    Small fires
    Confined fire areas
    People who have read the directions earlier


Fire Extinguishers ARE NOT designed for:
    Large fires
    Rapidly growing fires
    People who are unfamiliar with fire extiguisher use


Fire extinguishers come in different classes. Know what is on fire and use the proper extinguisher.

CLASS A

Ordinary combustibles:

Wood
Paper
Plastic
Cloth
Rubber
CLASS B

Flammable Liquids:

Grease
Oil
Gasoline
Tar
Oil-based paint
Lacquer
Flammable gas
CLASS C

Electrical Equipment:

Wiring
Fuse Boxes
Circuit Brakers
Machinery
Appliances

WARNING! Using a fire extinguisher on the wrong class of fire can MAKE THE FIRE WORSE!  It is dangerous to use water or an extinguisher labeled only for Class A fires on a grease or electrical fire.

When a fire occurs always:
    First notify 911, and sound any alarms
    Evacuate immediately
    Rescue anyone in danger


You can try to use a fire extinguisher if you...
    Know the fire is small and confined
    Keep a clear escape route. Don't let the fire get between you and the exit
    Stay low, below the smoke
    If you have any doubt, leave the area
    Leave if fire grows out of control
    Close door to contain fire before you leave
    Wait for the fire department's permission before you re-enter the area


NEVER...
    Attempt to extinguish a large or rapidly growing fire
    Fight fires without an escape route
    Fight fires in a smoke filled room
    Fight fires if you are in doubt
    Assume the fire is out. Wait until the area is inspected by the fire department.

Ignoring any of these steps can be dangerous and fatal.