15

Oct
2017

5 Facts About Your Fire Extinguisher That Can Save Your Life

October 15th, 2017 | by Vancouver Fire | in Fire Protection Installations |    29   

You may think you know all there is to know about fire extinguishers, but they are in fact more complicated than they might look. Here are five facts about your fire extinguisher that just might save your life.

1. Fire Extinguishers Vary By Fire Type

Not all fire extinguishers are equal. They should all be labeled according to what type of fire they can be used on, whether it is wood or cloth, flammable liquids, electrical fires, or metal sources. These fires all require different methods of extinguishing, and if you use the wrong extinguisher you could actually make the fire worse.

2. There is a Simple Acronym For Operation

If you are in a situation in which you need to use a fire extinguisher, remember PASS – pull, aim, squeeze and sweep. Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher, aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle and sweep the contents from side to side to extinguish the fire.

3. Fire Extinguishers Need to Be Accessible

Your fire extinguisher needs to be easy to find and in reach in order to put out a fire. Make sure fire extinguisher locations are carefully and clearly labelled, where they can be easily reached in the event of a fire.

4. Extinguishers Must Fit the User

A fire extinguisher that is too heavy to lift will not help anyone. Consider the people who may be using the extinguisher when you select one for your home or business – they come in various sizes and weights.

5. Inspections are Vital

A fire extinguisher inspection can make the difference between disaster and safety. Fire extinguisher inspection for Vancouver homes and business should be regularly scheduled. This way, any needed maintenance or replacement is uncovered before a fire strikes. Contact VanFire BC for your needs.