Fire Extinguisher Safety

A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire district arrives; but portable extinguishers have limitations.  Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the #1 priority for residents is to get out safely. Here is what you need to know about using fire extinguishers!

 When operating a fire extinguisher, tell remember the word PASS.

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

 Fire extinguishers can be helpful on a small fire. Below is a checklist to help you prepare to use a fire extinguisher.

• Have I alerted others in the building that there’s a fire?
• Has someone called the 911?
• Am I physically able to use a fire extinguisher?
• Is the fire small and contained in a single object (like a pan or a wastebasket)?
• Am I safe from the fire’s toxic smoke?
• Do I have a clear escape route?

Use a fire extinguisher when all of these questions are answered “yes.” If you’re unsure about whether or not it’s safe to use a fire extinguisher, and for all other situations, alert others, leave the building, and call 911 from a mobile or neighbor’s phone. It is not recommended that children use fire extinguishers.