What You Should Know About Fire Extinguishers

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers are convenient when the need arises, but only if you know how to use them. If you’ve never held an extinguisher before, this article can give you a general knowledge of how to use one along with a few handy tips that can help you during a disaster.

How the Extinguisher Works

The extinguisher is basically a giant hairspray can. Depending on the solid, liquid, or gas used in the extinguisher, you can properly put out the flames. Whichever substance is in the can gets propelled out of the extinguisher with the help of a high-pressure chemical. The three types of fire extinguishers include the following:

• Dry chemical extinguishers - Foam or dry powder spews out and smothers the fire.
• Water extinguishers - Water gets pushed out and removes the heat from the flames.
• Carbon dioxide extinguishers - The gas expands, cools, and overpowers the heat.

Extinguishers are also classified by the kinds of fires that are dealt with. There are five different kinds that are used for specific fires.

How To Use a Fire Extinguisher

These handheld machines were made to be simple. Be sure to choose the right extinguisher for the fire, and then pull the pin in the handle. Move the nozzle and aim at the bottom of the flames and slowly pull the lever. Move the nozzle slowly back and forth to fully extinguish the fire.

When You Should Call the Fire Department

Not every fire should be put out with an extinguisher. If the fire is taller than you, it’s time to evacuate and call 911. Be sure to activate the fire alarm and help others escape the building safely.

Not every building will have the right fire extinguisher for the situation. If a kitchen fire is grease-based, your extinguisher may not be the right one to put it out. As a precaution, learn about the different classes of extinguishers and which ones your business in New Orleans, LA, owns. By doing this, you can prevent fire damage and protect your employees from serious injury or harm.

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