Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is a safe escape. Most extinguishers will completely discharge after 8-10 seconds.

Key Points:

• Designed to fight small fires. Be sure to try to extinguish it only if the room is not filled with smoke.
• Only use one if you feel confident and the fire is small (about the size of a waste basket)
• Be sure that someone has called 911 before you try to extinguish it.
• Five classifications of fire: A, B, C, D, K. see below for detailed descriptions
• The number on the extinguisher determines how much fire it can fight, the higher the number, the more it can put out.
• Mount extinguishers no higher than 5 feet from the floor to the top of the extinguisher. Make sure they are not mounted near heat sources or under drapes.
• Place them in high traffic, highly visible areas.
• Remember acronym PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
• Stand 6-8 feet away from a fire when using an extinguisher; make sure you are between the fire and the exit.
• If you are unsuccessful, leave the premise immediately, and close all doors behind you to prevent smoke and flames from spreading rapidly.
• Servicing: Extinguishers need to be inspected once a year, and service every 5.

Other Safety Tips

• Exits must be clear and free of obstructions.
• Know the emergency procedures provided by the employer.
• Know where the gas, water, and electric shut-offs are, everyone should know how to turn them off.
• When smoking outside, be sure that the cigarette butts are out before leaving the premise.
• In general, keep work areas clean and organize.
• For appliances that plug into an outlet, be sure to check cords for damage or wear.
• Where safety gear/personal protection equipment (PPE) when appropriate.
• Always be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you know where all the extinguishers are located, and which exits to use in case of emergency. 

Classification of Fires

Type A

Type A extinguishers fight ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth, and paper.

Type B

Type B extinguishers fight flammable liquids, gases, and greases such as oils, paints, and gasoline.

Type C

Type C extinguishers fight energized electrical equipment including wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery, and appliances. If the object is no longer energized, it is categorized in one or more of the other classifications.

Class D

Class D fires are fires that involve combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium.

Class K

Class K fires are fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. This is for commercial kitchens, including those found in restaurants, cafeterias, and caterers.