Fire Extinguisher Use

Overview

Fire extinguishers are critical first-response tools that can stop small fires before they spread and become uncontrollable. Knowing how to properly select and use fire extinguishers can save lives, protect property, and prevent small incidents from becoming major disasters.

Why This Is Important

Quick, correct use of fire extinguishers during the early stages of a fire can prevent catastrophic damage and save lives. However, improper use or using the wrong type of extinguisher can be dangerous and ineffective. Every worker should understand basic fire extinguisher operation and limitations.

Fire extinguishers are designed for small fires in their early stages. Knowing when to fight a fire and when to evacuate is critical for personal safety and effective emergency response.

90%

Fire Control Rate

90% of fires can be controlled with proper early extinguisher use by trained personnel

80%

Property Protection

Early fire suppression can reduce property damage by up to 80% compared to fires that spread

Best Practices & Safety Tips

P - Pull the Pin

Remove the safety pin to break the tamper seal and enable operation of the extinguisher.

A - Aim at the Base

Point the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, not at the flames themselves.

S - Squeeze the Handle

Squeeze the operating handle fully to discharge the extinguishing agent.

S - Sweep Side to Side

Move the nozzle from side to side, covering the entire base of the fire.

Safety Guidelines

Only fight small, contained fires that are smaller than you are
Always keep an escape route behind you when using an extinguisher
Inspect extinguishers monthly for damage, pressure, and proper mounting
Never turn your back on a fire, even after it appears to be extinguished

Emergency Response

Call emergency services immediately after using any fire extinguisher
Evacuate immediately if the fire is spreading or growing larger
Report missing, damaged, or discharged extinguishers immediately
Receive hands-on training in fire extinguisher use and fire safety procedures

Fire Extinguisher Process

Assess → Select → Use PASS → Monitor

Assess the Fire: Determine size, type, and whether it’s safe to fight
Select Extinguisher: Choose the correct type for the fire class
Use PASS Method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
Monitor & Evacuate: Watch for re-ignition, call fire department

Discussion Questions

Have you ever used a fire extinguisher before? What was the situation and outcome?
What types of fires are most common in our work environment, and which extinguishers should we use?
How do you decide when a fire is too large to fight and when you should evacuate immediately?
Where are fire extinguishers located in your work area, and how often are they inspected?
What would you do after successfully extinguishing a fire to ensure safety and prevent re-ignition?

Action Items

Locate all fire extinguishers in work areas and verify inspection dates
Ensure workers receive hands-on fire extinguisher training
Review fire emergency procedures and evacuation routes
Establish procedures for reporting extinguisher use and maintenance needs

Fire Safety Basics - Comprehensive fire prevention and emergency response
Work Area Best Practices - Maintaining clear access to fire safety equipment

Fire Safety Empowerment: Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher properly empowers you to act safely and effectively in fire emergencies. Stay prepared, practice the PASS technique, and remember - when in doubt, evacuate and let the fire department handle it. Your safety is more important than property.