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Fire Extinguisher FAQs
10/15/2020 (Permalink)
If your home or business is in need of fire clean up and restoration services, give SERVPRO of Bay County a call at 850-785-1077.
It is widely known that having an in-date fire extinguisher on your property is imperative to fire safety, but did you know that there are different kinds of fire extinguishers, as well as a proper way in which to use one? Keeping yourself, your family, and your property protected in the event of a structure fire is paramount, and the below information can help facilitate that process.
Q: What are the different kinds of fire extinguishers, and what is each used for?
A: The U.S. Fire Administration defines five primary types of fire extinguishers used to put out different kinds of fires:
- A – used for ordinary material fires, such as wood, cloth, or paper.
- B – for use with combustible or flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, or oil.
- C – for use with electrical equipment like appliances and tools.
- D – for use with flammable metals.
- K – for use with animal oils, vegetable oils, and fats in cooking appliances.
Many fire extinguishers may also be multipurpose, in that they carry multiple letter definitions and can put out a variety of material fires.
Q: What is the proper way to use a fire extinguisher?
A: The U.S. Fire Administration suggests the acronym “PASS” as a means of properly discharging a fire extinguisher:
P - Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
A - Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
S - Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
S - Sweep the nozzle from side to side
To keep yourself safe, it is important to use extreme caution within a fire damaged structure, and always follow the guidance of local fire authorities. SERVPRO of Bay County offers a full line of fire clean up and restoration services, and we are Here to Help when you need. Give us a call at 850-785-1077 to learn more.