FAQ About Fire Extinguishers
A fire extinguisher is an agent filled, high pressure device used to control small fires. If you purchase one that is relatively small you will be able to hold it with one or two hands and squeeze the trigger while directing the hose toward the fire. It is not meant for fires that are more severe and out of control.
Q. Are there different types of fire extinguishers?
A. Yes. There are two types, stored pressure and cartridge fire extinguishers, which are not as common. The stored pressure fire extinguisher carries the same chemical agent in it that firemen use in theirs. The cartridge fire extinguisher carries its agent in a separate compartment and punctured when it is thought to be needed.
Q. Are there different classes of fire extinguishers?
A. Yes. There are four, class A, class B, class C and class D. The class A fire extinguisher is used for paper, wood, cardboard and several types of plastic. Class B fire extinguishers area used for grease, oil and gas fires. Class C fire extinguishers helps to manage electrical fires. Class D fire extinguishers are for fires involving metals that are combustible.
Q. How should you use a fire extinguisher?
A. To operate a fire extinguisher you will need to know exactly what to do before you attempt it. If you see a small fire that you believe to be easily manageable, you would locate your fire extinguisher and pull out the pin in the nozzle. After pulling out the pin, you will need to hold the hose in one hand while grasping the handle of the fire extinguisher in the other hand. Aim the hose at the base of the fire and squeeze the handle. Do not direct it at the fire itself, but rather move the hose back and forth in a sweeping motion.
Q. What type of fire extinguisher should you have in your home?
A. A good type of fire extinguisher to put in your home is class A, B, C. This is a common type of fire extinguisher and the one most people will use.
Q. In what area of the house should the fire extinguisher be placed?
A. A fire extinguisher should be placed on every floor of your home. You should place it high enough for an adult to grab, if needed. However, do not place it too high where an older child, who is well trained in the use of it, cannot reach. Put the fire extinguisher in a highly visible area and near an escape doorway. If possible, the kitchen and garage should also have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Q. What do you do with the fire extinguisher after it has been used?
A. If it is a rechargeable unit then take it to be serviced. If it is a disposable unit, you will need to buy a new fire extinguisher immediately. This is an item that you should never be without, as it could save yours and your family’s life.