Fire Extinguisher Information

11/3/2014 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher can be a life saving tool when used correctly. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends individuals are properly trained in order to use and maintain an extinguisher. USFA says an extinguisher should only be used if:

• You have alerted other occupants and someone has called the fire department;
• The fire is small and contained to a single object, such as a wastebasket; You are safe from the toxic smoke produced by the fire;
• You have a means of escape identified and the fire is not between you and the escape route; and
• Your instincts tell you that it is safe to use an extinguisher.

Choosing the Proper Fire Extinguisher for Your Needs

Class A: For use with fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.

Class B: Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline and oil.

Class C: Suitable for use on fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment that is electrically energized or plugged in.

Class D: For use on flammable metals and are often specific for the type of metal in question. These are typically found only in factories working with these metals.

Class K: For use on fires involving vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. These extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens, but are becoming more popular in the residential market.

Information provided by U.S. Fire Administration