Polk Township Vol. Fire Dept.

Every home should be equipped with several fire extinguishers. They should be located throughout the house; in the kitchen area, garage, basement, upstairs and close to your exit doors in case of fire. If one extinguisher doesn't work or has lost it's pressure, there should be another one close by. Using the correct type of fire extinguisher is essential. All extinguishers must be labeled by the manufacturer with a rating for the class of fire the extinguisher is used to fight. There are two method of labeling portable fire extinguishers. The first method uses specific colored geometric shapes with the class letter inside the shape. The second method is a picture-symbol for easier selection and safer use of the extinguisher.

The letters A,B,C are standard designation for the three most common classes of fires. There is a fourth classD for combustible metal. Class D extinguisheres are found in industrial applications.

A is for ashes. Fires involving material that will leave ashes; such as wood, paper or textiles are Class A fires. The picture symbol is a wastebasket and wood.

B is for barrel. Fires involving flammable liquid are Class B fires. The picture-symbol is a fuel can.

C is for current. Class C fires are essentially Class A or B fires involving energized electrical equipment. A Class C rating confirms that the extinguishing agent is nonconductive. The picture-symbol is an electric cord and outlet.

Extinguishers suitable for more than one class of fire will be identified by multiples of symbols A, B and/or C. The most common combinations are Class A-B-C, Class A-B, Class B-C. There are no extinguishers with a Class A-C rating.

Operating a fire extinguisher

1. Make sure everyone has left the building.
2. Make sure someone has called 911 to report the fire.
3. Make sure you have an escape route in case conditions worsen.
4. Remove the extinguisher and look at the pressure gage to make sure the unit is GOOD.
5. Pull the pin or other sealing device.
6. Point the nozzle at the base of the fire from about eight (8) to ten (10) feet away.
7. Squeeze the handle and with a sweeping motion, direct the nozzle at the base of the flames.
8. Make sure the fire is out! A fire can rekindle easily.

If you have doubts about using the extinguisher, leave the building and call 911. If you decide to fight the fire, call 911 first anyway. Don't wait to call, this is precious time that can't be wasted while you try to fight the fire.

If used correctly, a fire extinguisher is part of your first line of defense in fireproofing your home.

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John D. Einhorn
Sources: IAFC,NFPA