Fighting fire: when and how to use a fire extinguisher
Posted on: 7 October 2016
Share
Fires occur in Australia every year due to negligence, electrical malfunctions, the climate and a host of other reasons. While the best methods of stopping the flames revolve around prevention, occasionally we have no choice in the matter. For those instances, these tips should help you recognise when it is safe to deal with the fire on your own and how to go about doing it.
Right off the bat, it is important to realise when a situation is dire. If the fire has or looks like it will spread beyond a manageable area or smoke is present in the room, it is best to play it safe by evacuating the premises, contacting authorities and leaving it up to them. Your safety and the safety of the people around you should always be the first concern. Properties and objects can be replaced, but lives cannot.
If the fire is isolated, fire blankets and fire extinguishers are useful items to have on hand. They are designed to allow the average person to put out the flames before they can spread and cause more damage. Most work places should have these items available. In any case, always call the fire department before you attempt to put out the flames. If things get out of hand, they will be there to deal with it.
Fire blankets are generally used for smaller outbreaks, usually from frying pans, and when it is unsafe to use water to extinguish the flames. They work by preventing any oxygen from reaching and fuelling the fire.
For larger fires, learning how to operate a fire extinguisher is essential. While the process might seem simple, when faced with an actual fire, it is important to remain calm so as not to be overwhelmed and forget what to do. Above all else, remember where the fire extinguisher's pin is located and remember the acronym PASS.
1. Pull the pin to release the lock, remembering to face the nozzle towards the flame and away from yourself or other people as you do so.
2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire to have a better chance at extinguishing it.
3. Squeeze the lever slowly to eject the extinguishing agent.
4. Sweep the nozzle back and forth over the entire area engulfed in flame until it is extinguished.
Once the fire is put out, wait a few seconds to ensure it does not start up again. By keeping these tips on hand, you'll be better equipped to deal with any potential fires in the future.