| |
USE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Virtually all fires start small and might be extinguished if
the proper type and amount of extinguishing agent were applied.
Fire extinguishers are the first line of defense against fire.
Whether an extinguisher is effective often depends on how you use
it. However, an alarm should be given and security notified at
extension 13 as soon as a fire is discovered. Notification should
NEVER be delayed in the hope that the extinguisher will be
sufficient. Please read the following guidelines to help you
understand the different classes of fires, the different types of
fire extinguishers and the correct operation of fire
extinguishers.
CHOOSING THE PROPER EXTINGUISHER:
- CLASS "A"
- For ordinary type fire involving solids such as wood, paper,
cloth, choose a water or dry chemical fire extinguisher with a
label indicating CLASS "A" or "ABC."
- CLASS "B"
- For fires involving flammable or combustible liquids, choose a
carbon dioxide extinguisher or dry chemical fire extinguisher with
a label indicating CLASS "BC" or "ABC."
- CLASS "C"
- For fires involving live electrical equipment, choose a carbon
dioxide or dry chemical fire extinguisher with a label indicating
CLASS "BC" or "ABC."
GENERAL GUIDELINES:
- Keep a clear exit behind you and let the extinguishing agent
put the fire out. Water extinguishers have an effective range of
30-40 feet. Dry chemical extinguishers 5-12 feet and carbon
dioxide extinguishers 3-8 feet.
- Pull the pin to activate the handle.
- Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle to dispel the extinguishing agent. Use
your senses, if you feel the heat you're too close, listen to the
sound the extinguisher is making it changes as it becomes
empty.
- Sweep the agent from side to side starting at the base of
the fire. If you are making waves or splashing a liquid fire, you
are applying (sweeping) the agent too slowly.
- Once the fire is out, carefully back away from the fire.
NEVER turn your back on a fire as it can flare back up.
If there are any questions or problems regarding this page this page, please contact Ken Simolo at
|
