Return to Help Index
Buyer's Guide
 

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: A Step-By-Step Guide



One of the most important pieces of safety equipment in any home or office is a fire extinguisher. But having a fire extinguisher is only half the battle – you also need to know how to use it!


In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about fire extinguishers, from choosing the right one to using it effectively. We’ll also give you some tips on what to avoid when operating a fire extinguisher.


By the end of this article, you’ll be a pro at using a fire extinguisher – and you’ll be one step closer to being prepared for any emergency.



What Are the Different Types of Fire Extinguishers?


Fire extinguishers come in a variety of types, and it’s important to choose the right one for the situation. The most common types of fire extinguishers are water-based, dry chemical and carbon dioxide.


Water-based fire extinguishers are best suited to put out fires caused by combustible materials, such as wood and paper. Dry chemical extinguishers are designed to put out electrical fires, while carbon dioxide extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by flammable liquids and gasses.


It’s important to choose the right type for the fire you’re trying to put out, as some types are more effective than others. For example, a water-based extinguisher won’t be effective in putting out a fire caused by an electrical short circuit.



How Do You Use a Fire Extinguisher?

P.A.S.S. is an acronym that can help you remember how to use the extinguisher. Follow the P.A.S.S. Method:

  • Pull the extinguisher’s pin
  • Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
  • Squeeze the handle to discharge the agent
  • Sweep the nozzle back and forth

Finally, keep spraying until the fire has been completely extinguished. This can take anywhere from 30 seconds to several minutes.



What Are Some Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips?


When using a fire extinguisher, always remember to follow these safety tips:

• Always read the instructions before using the extinguisher.

• Make sure the area is well-ventilated before using the extinguisher.

• Always keep the extinguisher upright while spraying it.

• Never use a fire extinguisher on a large or out-of-control fire.

• Wear protective clothing, such as gloves and safety glasses.

• Place the used fire extinguisher in a designated area and inspect it regularly.


What Should You Do if You Can’t Put Out the Fire?


If you’re unable to put out the fire with a fire extinguisher, it’s best to evacuate the area immediately.


Call the fire department to let them know the situation, and make sure everyone in the area is out of harm’s way. When evacuating, make sure to stay low to the ground to avoid inhaling smoke and toxic fumes.


Do not open doors that have smoke coming out from under them. Once out of the building, try to keep a safe distance from the fire and stay away from any powerlines or other hazardous materials that could cause injury.



How Often Should You Check or Replace Your Fire Extinguisher?


It’s important to regularly check and maintain your fire extinguisher to make sure it’s in good working condition. This is especially true if the fire extinguisher has been used in the past.


Most fire extinguishers should be inspected once per year and serviced every 5 or 6 years by a qualified professional. If the fire extinguisher is more than 12 years old, it should be replaced. Additionally, if the pressure gauge on the fire extinguisher reads “empty” or “low”, it should be refilled or replaced as soon as possible.


Conclusion


Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher correctly can be a huge asset in the event of an emergency. That’s why it’s so important to take the time to familiarize yourself with your fire extinguisher and understand the proper way to use it. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any small fires that may come up. Remember to regularly check and service your fire extinguisher, and never use it on a large or out-of-control fire.


Do you have to be licensed to install an extinguisher?
  Only a certified and licensed technician is authorized to install fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers are installed per fire code and insurance requirements. Once installed properly the fire extinguisher gets a compliance tag and you'll be covered for one full year.
What do the A B C class ratings mean on fire extinguishers?
  The A, B, C, D, and K ratings classify the different types of fires that a fire extinguisher is designed to fight. Some fires may involve a combination of these class ratings. Typically, a fire extinguisher puts out an ABC class type of fire.



The rating system shown above defines the kinds of burning materials a fire extinguisher is designed to fight. Each fire extinguisher also has a numerical rating that serves as a guide for the amount of fire the extinguisher can handle. The higher the number, the more fire-fighting power. For more information on fire extinguisher ratings visit OSHA and NFPA.

Need Help? Chat Now with a Fire Safety Specialist or call (773)819-2979. We'll help you determine the best options available.
What type of fire extinguisher should I get?
  Before using any type of fire extinguisher, you need to know the fire class ratings (see above) of the material burning. The class ratings will allow you to choose the right extinguisher for the job. Click on a fire extinguisher type below for more details.

Class Extinguisher
Typically Used For...
A B C ABC General work areas, open office space, warehouse, hallways, and service vehicles.
B C CO2 Boiler rooms, electrical rooms, mechanical shops, and flamable liquid storage area.
A B C Halotron Computer rooms, server rooms, data storage areas, and telecommunication rooms.
K Class K Commercial cooking kitchens and restaurants.

Need Help? Chat Now with a Fire Safety Specialist or call (773)819-2979. We'll help you determine the best options available.
Why not buy a fire extinguisher from Home Depot or Lowe's?
  When you buy a fire extinguisher from Home Depot or Lowe's you also have to buy a compliance tag that doesn't come with the fire extinguisher. You will have to call a company like ours to come out and certify the fire extinguisher which is going to be an additional change. The savings that you're looking for is not going to be there because eventually you're going to have a fire inspector come in and make you put a compliance tag on the fire extinguishers. When you buy a fire extinguisher from FireExtinguishersChicago.com we come out and install it per fire code. Once installed properly the fire extinguisher gets a compliance tag and you'll be fine.
Can I buy extinguishers at your location?
  You can buy fire extinguishers, but our licensed technician will need to install and hang the fire extinguishers. This ensures the fire extinguishers were correctly installed at your facility per OSHA and NFPA guidelines. Once this is completed, each fire extinguisher will get a compliance tag that’s good for a whole year.
Can I bring extinguishers to your location? Do you accept walk-ins?
  We do not service extinguishers at this location or accept walk-ins. Repairs, Recharges, and Maintenance is done at a different location with bigger equipment. By having a technician go to your location you can avoid spending time in a waiting room to have an inspection done on your extinguishers. You will need to spend more time in the waiting room if repairs or maintenance is needed on your extinguishers. Enjoy the convenience of having a technician come to your location. We offer same day and next day service.

Need Help? Chat Now with a Fire Safety Specialist or call (773)819-2979. We'll help you determine the best options available.
How do I pass a fire extinguisher inspection?
  This will be determined on site by a licensed technician. The technician will conduct a 13 Point Inspection on each fire extinguisher and advise you of any deficiencies. Any deficiencies will need to be corrected before passing inspection. Some corrective action include recharges, six year maintenance, and hydrotests..

Need Help? Chat Now with a Fire Safety Specialist or call (773)819-2979. We'll help you determine the best options available.
What does it cost for a recharge, six year maintenance, or hydrotest?
  The costs for a recharge, six year maintenance, or hydrotest depends on the type and size of the fire extinguisher. These services typically range from $23 to $53. There are also various fire extinguisher parts that range from $2 to $12 that may need to be replaced.
Can recharges, six year maintenance, or hydrotests be done on site?
  Any fire extinguisher service not requiring heavy equipment can be done on site.  There is also a convenient SWAP program that substitutes a condemned extinguisher for a certified extinguisher.