Portable Fire Extinguishers

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Fire extinguishers are considered first aid appliances.  Operators must be trained in their classification and use.  When a fire is first detected, THINK SAFETY FIRST!

  • Sound the alarm 
  • Immediately contact the local Fire Department by dialing 911 if possible.
  • Provide any and all information requested.

 

Classification of types of fires and types of portable fire extinguishers:

  • Class A fires involve ordinary materials such as paper, cloth wood, cardboard, foam, and other rubbish and debris.
    • Use a Class A or Class ABC fire extinguisher on this type of fire.
  • Class B fires involve flammable and combustible liquids such as fuels, paints, solvents, and grease.
    • Use a Class B or Class ABC fire extinguisher!
    • Do not use a Class A extinguisher on this type of fire. Possibility of spreading the flames.
  • Class C fires are electrical fires.
    • Use a Class C or Class ABC fire extinguisher on these types of fires.
    • Do not use a Class A fire extinguisher on this type of fire. You must disconnect the power source to eliminate these types of fires.
  • Class D fires involve flammable metals such as magnesium, potassium, and other flammable metals.  Must utilize special extinguishing agents to extinguish these types of fires.
    • Class A, Class B, or Class C fire extinguishers are not designed to extinguish these types of fires.
    • Class ABC fire extinguishers are designed to be used on all classes of fires except Class D fires.
    • Class BC fire extinguishers are designed to be used on flammable liquid and electrical fires only.

 

Follow these operating procedures if/when attempting to extinguish a fire utilizing a fire extinguisher listed above.  Do not attempt to extinguish a fire if you are not trained and/or authorized to do so.  PASS method of using fire extinguishers:

  • PULL the retaining pin on the handle of the fire extinguisher.  Stand back 8-10 feet from the fire.
  • AIM the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
  • SQUEEZE the handle of the extinguisher.
  • SWEEP the extinguishing agent at the base of the fire.

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