How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are handy and very easy to operate. There are different designs of them and each has its own ways of operation depending on the manufacturer. It is important to be familiar with the instructions printed on each design instead of waiting until fire breaks out, which generally are:

a.       Hold the extinguisher upright, then remove the safety pin or cap.

b.      Direct the nozzle to the base of the flame.

c.       Press the level or strike the knob.

d.      Spray the base of the fire.

After use fire extinguishers should be sent back to the manufacturer for refilling. They also need to be inspected regularly to ensure they will be effective when needed. Every workshop should have fire extinguishers. They should be placed in an easily accessible position, such as near the doors and where a fire is most likely to start.

Point to remember before attempting to put out fire

1. Call for higher authorities if fire is immense
2. Check that all people are out of the fire place and assembled at safe meeting place
3. Do not panic
4. Check for your safety to ensure exit points, toxic smoke emission, structural safety of the area like burning walls, roofs, etc.,
5. Your life is more important than fire "Think of your safety and those of others"
6. Use common sense; only small fires can be fought using fire extinguishers
7. Check the type of fire and type of extinguisher available

NB.
If the fire does not respond to fire extinguisher, take off to a safe distance because it is futile to expose yourself to risk without achievement.