Home — Safety — Fire Extinguishers

Learning to use a fire extinguisher and buying the right kind are two of the most important decisions you can make in ensuring your home or business is safe from fire. If you'd like to receive training or you're a member of an organization whose members want training, let us know. We can teach you about fire extinguishers and provide hands-on training at your location with our burn simulator, all at no charge.

For details, call 348-7540 or e-mail us.

Below are the basics about fire extinguishers and their use.

 

 

 

What to Get

Fire extinguishers are designed to fight different types of fires, indicated by combinations of the letters and shapes illustrated in this diagram.

The best extinguisher for your home is a multi-purpose extinguisher rated ABC because it can be used on paper, wood, flammable liquids and electrical devices if they catch fire.

Install extinguishers wherever flammable materials are stored, including the kitchen and garage, but keep them well away from those materials.    

For questions about what types of extinguishers to install in a business, contact our Fire Prevention Bureau for guidance.

How to Use Your Extinguisher

Before you use a fire extinguisher to fight a fire, call the fire department. Only then, and only if you know how to use the extinguisher, should you attempt to put out the blaze.

An easy way to remember how to use a fire extinguisher is the acronym PASS:

PULL the pin near the handle of the extinguisher.

AIM the extinguisher at the base, or bottom, of the fire.

SQEEZE the lever located on the handle.

SWEEP the extinguisher from side to side until the fire is out or the extinguisher runs out.

Make sure you use the right extinguisher for the right fire. If the fire grows or it appears the extinguisher isn’t working, get out, stay out and let firefighters handle the blaze.

Whenever a fire starts, dial 9-1-1.