Fires can occur due to numerous reasons, make sure you are prepared by having fire extinguishers placed strategically around your house. What is recommended it – At least one on each floor, one in the kitchen (this should be an all-purpose extinguisher so it can be used on grease and electrical fires.), one in the basement, one in the garage or workshop area. Keep them out of reach of children.
Use a Fire Extinguisher when a fire is contained and in a small area (e.g. a bin) and after the Fire Brigade has been called. If a fire is not contained, uncontrolled and spreading, raise the alarm and leave your house immediately.
Remember these steps in operating a Fire Extinguisher:
- Place extinguisher on floor or table.
- Place one hand around neck of extinguisher.
- Hold extinguisher securely and pull out safety pin.
- Stand safe distance away from fire.
- Hold the base of the nozzle/hose.
- Squeezer the operating trigger.
- Spray the base of fire in a sweeping motion until extinguished.
The best time to learn how to use the fire extinguisher is now, before you ever need it. Fire extinguishers have gauges on them indicating when they need to be replaced and should be checked regularly to make sure they're still functional.
If you're ever in doubt about whether to use an extinguisher on a fire, don't try it. Instead, leave the house immediately and call the fire department.
